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Repeat concussion diagnosed in one in six youth within 2 years of index concussion
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Results showed one in six youth sustained repeat concussion within 2 years of index concussion, with this risk increased among patients with several clinical characteristics of the index concussion.
Christina L. Master, MD, and colleagues collected clinical data on 536 pediatric patients 5 to 15 years of age who visited a Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia location from July 2012 through June 2013 for an index concussion. Researchers also collected data on all concussion-related visits for 2 years following the index concussion.
Results showed at least one repeat concussion in 16.2% of patients within 2 years of their index concussion. Researchers noted an increase in the risk of repeat concussion with patient age, with a 1.85-times higher risk for second concussion among patients aged 12 to 15 years compared with patients aged 9 to 11 years. Patients who had one or more pre-existing co-occurring condition had a greater risk for a repeat concussion at 2 years, according to results.
In an adjusted multivariable model, researchers found the risk for repeat concussion was heightened among patients who had a longer clinical course and greater symptom burden with their index concussion.
“We have always known that having a concussion appears to increase your future risk for another concussion. What we have not had is a specific quantifiable risk,” Master told Healio.com/Orthopedics. “For children in our study ages 5 to 15 years presenting for care for a concussion, 8% sustained another concussion in 1 year and 16% in 2 years. This puts the risk of concussion in perspective; that concussions, even repeat concussions, happen in childhood but they are not commonplace. Recognition and management are key to recovery and safe return to activities.” – by Casey Tingle
Disclosure s : The authors report no relevant financial disclosures.
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