Mild traumatic brain injury and postconcussive symptoms in children and adolescents

J Int Neuropsychol Soc. 2010 Nov;16(6):953-60. doi: 10.1017/S1355617710000986. Epub 2010 Aug 25.

Abstract

The vast majority of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in children are of mild severity. Even if only a small proportion of children with mild TBI suffer negative outcomes, then mild TBI is a serious public health problem. This review summarizes the literature regarding the neurobehavioral outcomes associated with mild TBI in children and adolescents, focusing on the longstanding debate regarding postconcussive symptoms and attendant conceptual and methodological issues. The review also discusses future research directions, the long-term goal of which is to develop a comprehensive and integrated biopsychosocial model of outcomes that helps guide clinical management.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Brain Injuries / complications*
  • Brain Injuries / psychology
  • Child
  • Developmental Disabilities / etiology*
  • Developmental Disabilities / psychology
  • Humans
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Post-Concussion Syndrome / etiology*
  • Post-Concussion Syndrome / psychology
  • Risk Factors
  • Time Factors