Concussion symptom inventory: an empirically derived scale for monitoring resolution of symptoms following sport-related concussion

Arch Clin Neuropsychol. 2009 May;24(3):219-29. doi: 10.1093/arclin/acp025. Epub 2009 Jun 23.

Abstract

Self-report post-concussion symptom scales have been a key method for monitoring recovery from sport-related concussion, to assist in medical management, and return-to-play decision-making. To date, however, item selection and scaling metrics for these instruments have been based solely upon clinical judgment, and no one scale has been identified as the "gold standard". We analyzed a large set of data from existing scales obtained from three separate case-control studies in order to derive a sensitive and efficient scale for this application by eliminating items that were found to be insensitive to concussion. Baseline data from symptom checklists including a total of 27 symptom variables were collected from a total of 16,350 high school and college athletes. Follow-up data were obtained from 641 athletes who subsequently incurred a concussion. Symptom checklists were administered at baseline (preseason), immediately post-concussion, post-game, and at 1, 3, and 5 days post-injury. Effect-size analyses resulted in the retention of only 12 of the 27 variables. Receiver-operating characteristic analyses were used to confirm that the reduction in items did not reduce sensitivity or specificity. The newly derived Concussion Symptom Inventory is presented and recommended as a research and clinical tool for monitoring recovery from sport-related concussion.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Brain Concussion / diagnosis*
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Databases as Topic
  • Diagnostic Techniques, Neurological*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Post-Concussion Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • ROC Curve
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Students
  • Time Factors