Abstract
Introduction Despite growing research on concussion, there is currently minimal evidence comparing the acute presentation of sport-related concussion between adult and pediatric patients. Objective To assess and compare the injury characteristics, symptoms and neurologic exam findings in acute sport-related concussion between adult and pediatric patients. Methods Retrospective cohort study of all patients presenting to an outpatient sports neurology clinic for initial assessment of an acute concussion within 7 days of injury between January 2016 and August 2017. Patients were divided into 2 groups, 18 and older (n = 28) and 17 and younger (n = 107). Data assessed included age, sex, injury date, date of visit, injury characteristics, Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT3) symptom scale, sleep characteristics, comorbid medical diagnoses, and neurologic exam findings. Results There were no significant differences between the adult and pediatric patients in any SCAT3 symptom score, neurologic exam category, pertinent elements of past medical history, or characteristics of the acute concussion, including number of head impacts, presence of helmet, loss of consciousness, amnesia, or continuation of play. The pediatric group had significantly higher average hours of sleep ( p = 0.034) and were less likely to wake up refreshed ( p = 0.024). There were no other significant differences in sleep characteristics between the groups. Conclusions The initial presentation of acute concussion within 7 days of injury will likely not differ by age, specifically 18 and older vs 17 and younger. These data suggest no indication for focusing on specific portions of the history or neurologic examination based on these age groups.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call