Cumulative effects of subsequent concussions on the neural patterns of young rugby athletes: data from event-related potentials

Abstract

Our study aimed at detecting a potential cumulative effect of subsequent concussions on the neural activation patterns of young rugby athletes with or without concussion history. Event-related brain potential (ERP) data from 24 rugby players, 22-year-old on average, were retrospectively examined. All underwent a Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT2) during preseason and an on-site ERP task (P300) following a recent concussion event (<48 hours). Sixteen players suffered at least one concussion in the previous 3 years and eight were without self-reported past concussion. While no differences were reported between groups regarding symptom appraisal on the SCAT2 assessment, ERP revealed significantly decreased P3b amplitude and a trend for increased P3b latency in players who experienced prior concussions. Our data thus support the cumulative effect of concussions on neuroelectric events in young rugby players, highlighting the importance of managing player’s concussion load to reduce the risk of long-term injuries.