Citation

Fineblit S, Selci E, Loewen H, Ellis M, Russell K. J. Neurotrauma 2016; 33(17): 1561-1568.

Affiliation

University of Manitoba, Pediatrics and Child Health, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada ; krussell@chrim.ca.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Mary Ann Liebert Publishers)

DOI

10.1089/neu.2015.4292

PMID

26916876

Abstract

Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an emerging method to quantify the consequences of pediatric mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)/concussion in both clinical practice and research. However, in order to utilize HRQOL measurements to their full potential in the context of mTBI/concussion recovery, a better understanding of the typical course of HRQOL after these injuries is needed. The objective was to summarize current knowledge on HRQOL after pediatric mTBI/concussion and identify areas in need of further research. The following databases from their earliest date of coverage through June 1, 2015: MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Central, PEDro, and CDAS. Studies must have examined HRQOL in a pediatric population after mTBI/concussion, using a validated HRQOL measurement tool. 8 of 1660 records identified ultimately met inclusion criteria. Comprehensive data was extracted and checked by second reviewer for accuracy and completeness. There appears to be a small but important subgroup of patients who experience poor HRQOL outcomes up to a year or longer post-injury. Potential predictors of poor HRQOL include older age, lower socioeconomic status, or a history of headaches or trouble sleeping. Differing definitions of mTBI precluded meta-analysis. HRQOL represents an important outcome measure in mTBI/concussion clinical practice and research. The evidence shows a small but important proportion of patients have diminished HRQOL up to a year or longer post-injury. Further study on this topic is warranted to determine the typical longitudinal progression of HRQOL after pediatric concussion.

Language: en