Influence of Concussion History and Genetics on Event-Related Potentials in Athletes: Potential Use in Concussion Management

Abstract

Sports-related concussions are an increasing public health issue with much concern about the possible long-term decrements in cognitive function and quality of life that may occur in athletes. The measurement of cognitive function is a common component of concussion management protocols due to cognitive impairments that occur after sustaining a concussion; however, the tools that are often used may not be sensitive enough to expose long term problems with cognitive function. The current paper is a brief review, which suggests that measuring cognitive processing through the use of event related potentials (ERPs) may provide a more sensitive assessment of cognitive function, as shown through recent research showing concussion history to influence ERPs components. The potential influence of genetics on cognitive function and ERPs components will also be discussed in relation to future concussion management.

Unifying Pathophysiological Explanations for Sports-Related Concussion and Concussion Protocol Management: Literature Review

“…2,10 CTE may also be associated with disease processes such as depression, Parkinsonism, and dementia. 2,10,70 After examining concussion publications, the authors' confirm that the literature is vast and not yet ready for simplification into 1 neuropathological explanation. However, our review of the literature did simplify the existing literature and did surface several findings that may show trends in concussion literature, concussion across sports, concussion pathophysiology, and future direction in concussion research and management:…”

“…On the other hand, underdiagnosis of concussion becomes a public health concern with concussed and sub-concussed athletes continuing to play which may lead to neurodegenerative processes later in life. 68–70…”

“…On the other hand, underdiagnosis of concussion becomes a public health concern with concussed and sub-concussed athletes continuing to play which may lead to neurodegenerative processes later in life. [68][69][70] The exact pathology of concussion is not known and its sequel, such as CTE, debatable among leaders in the field. 7,[67][68][69] For this reason, a list of identifiable risk factors is dynamic.…”

“…2,10 CTE may also be associated with disease processes such as depression, Parkinsonism, and dementia. 2,10,70…”

“…Although sport-related concussion has been loosely defined as neurological symptoms and cognitive problems that result from direct blow to the head, face, neck, or other body parts that transmits force to the head, there are many areas of debate regarding the pathophysiology producing these symptoms on head trauma. 70 By simplifying the voices in the literature, our first finding indicated the presence of 5 predominant pathophysiological explanations for sport-related concussion. These pathophysiological findings may help elucidate the true mechanism and definition of a concussion.…”