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Review
. 2019 Nov 1;4(3):CNC65.
doi: 10.2217/cnc-2019-0005.

Representation of concussion subtypes in common postconcussion symptom-rating scales

Angela Lumba-Brown  1 , Jamshid Ghajar  2 , Jordan Cornwell  1 , O Josh Bloom  3 , James Chesnutt  4 , James R Clugston  5 , Raina Kolluri  6 , John J Leddy  7 , Masaru Teramoto  8 , Gerard Gioia  9
Affiliations
Review

Representation of concussion subtypes in common postconcussion symptom-rating scales

Angela Lumba-Brown et al. Concussion. .

Abstract

Aim: Postconcussion symptom-rating scales are frequently used concussion assessment tools that do not align directly with new expert, consensus-based concussion subtype classification systems. This may result in delays in concussion diagnosis, subspecialty referral and rehabilitative strategies.

Objective: To determine the representation of subtype-directed symptomatology in common postconcussion symptom-rating scales.

Methods: Literature review and expert consensus were used to compile commonly used concussion symptom-rating scales. Statistics were generated to describe the degree of representation of the consensus symptom set.

Results: The percentage of symptoms representing each subtype/associated condition is low overall (15-26%). The ocular-motor (11%) and vestibular subtypes (19%) and cervical strain (5%)-associated condition were the most under-represented and also had the greatest unmet needs.

Conclusion: Concussion subtypes do not have equal representation on commonly used concussion symptom-rating scales. There is a need for a subtype-directed symptom assessment to allow for increased accuracy of diagnosis and to guide management.

Keywords: concussion; oculomotor; postconcussion symptoms; vestibular.

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Conflict of interest statement

Financial & competing interests disclosure The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties. No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

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