The young brain and concussion: Imaging as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis

Concussion (mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)) is a significant pediatric public health concern. Despite increased awareness, a comprehensive understanding of the acute and chronic effects of concussion on central nervous system structure and function remains incomplete. Here we review the definition, epidemiology, and sequelae of concussion within the developing brain, during childhood and adolescence, with current data derived from studies of pathophysiology and neuroimaging. These findings may contribute to a better understanding of the neurological consequences of traumatic brain injuries, which in turn, may lead to the development of brain biomarkers to improve identification, management and prognosis of pediatric patients suffering from concussion.

► Concussion is a significant pediatric public health concern.
► Concussion affects several cortical and subcortical regions and systems.
► The extent and chronicity of disability are yet to be elucidated in children.
► Using new imaging techniques, subclinical changes are found in the concussed brain.
► Neuroimaging techniques may identify markers of severity and long-term disability.