'Concussion' is not a true diagnosis

Nat Rev Neurol. 2020 Sep;16(9):457-458. doi: 10.1038/s41582-020-0382-y.

Abstract

In current usage ‘concussion’ describes a clinical presentation, but does not identify the underlying pathological process and therefore cannot be considered a true diagnosis. However, mounting evidence indicates diffuse axonal injury as a likely pathological substrate for concussion, thereby providing a framework to develop true diagnostic criteria.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries / blood
  • Athletic Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Brain / diagnostic imaging*
  • Brain / metabolism
  • Brain Concussion / blood
  • Brain Concussion / diagnostic imaging*
  • Brain Injuries, Diffuse / diagnostic imaging*
  • Brain Injuries, Diffuse / metabolism
  • Humans

Substances

  • Biomarkers