Depressive Symptoms in Individuals with Persistent Postconcussion Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Importance: Approximately 15% to 30% of individuals with a history of concussion present with persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCS). Individuals with PPCS are at greater risk of experiencing depressive symptoms. Objective: To synthesize the association between depressive symptoms and PPCS in children, adolescents, and adults via meta-analysis and to investigate potential moderators of that association. Data Sources: Systematic search of Ovid Medline, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Embase from 1995 to January 2022 was performed. Additionally, references from included studies were hand-searched to ensure relevant articles were captured in the search. Study Selection: Studies that involved participants who experienced PPCS and quantified depressive symptoms were included. The definition of PPCS was limited to physician-diagnosed or self-reported concussion, with symptoms lasting for a minimum of 4 weeks postinjury. Two authors independently screened all articles to determine study eligibility. Data Extraction and Synthesis: Study characteristics were extracted independently by 2 trained investigators. Study data were meta-analyzed using a random-effects meta-analysis. Exposure: PPCS. Main Outcomes and Measures: The the primary outcome was depressive symptoms. Results: Data were extracted from 18 studies with a total of 9101 participants. Of the 18 studies, all were cohort studies, and 13 (72%) comprised adult populations. The mean (SD) time since concussion was 21.3 (18.7) weeks. After accounting for potential publication bias, the random-effects meta-analysis found a significant positive association between PPCS and depressive symptoms, (odds ratio, 4.56; 95% CI, 2.82-7.37; P