Concussion in Non-athletes: Assessment of Cognition and Symptomatology (CONTACTS) study protocol - an exploratory cohort study investigating the utility of sports concussion assessment tools and salivary microRNAs to diagnose concussion in NHS patients
Toman, Emma Riley, Max Hodgson, Sam Yakoub, Kamal M Cooper, Lauren Bishop, Jon Naumann, David N Welbury, Richard Hammond, Douglas Di Pietro, Valentina
Toman, Emma
Riley, Max
Hodgson, Sam
Yakoub, Kamal M
Cooper, Lauren
Bishop, Jon
Naumann, David N
Welbury, Richard
Hammond, Douglas
Di Pietro, Valentina
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2022-09-21
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Abstract
Introduction: Concussion is a complex pathophysiological process with a wide range of non-specific signs and symptoms. There are currently no objective diagnostic tests to identify concussion, and diagnosis relies solely on history and examination. Recent research has identified a unique panel of microRNAs (miRNAs) that distinguish between concussed and non-concussed rugby players. This study aims to assess the diagnostic utility of salivary miRNAs in concussion for a sample of UK National Health Service patients and whether well-established sports-related concussion (SRC) assessment tools may be translated into the emergency department (ED).
Methods and analysis: Concussion in Non-athletes: Assessment of Cognition and Symptomatology is a single-centre, prospective, two-phase cohort study. The concussed cohort will consist of participants with maxillofacial trauma and concurrent concussion. The control cohort will consist of participants with isolated limb trauma and no evidence of concussion. Participants will be recruited in the ED and saliva samples will be taken to identify the presence of miRNAs. The SRC assessments being investigated include the Sports Concussion Assessment Test, Fifth Edition (SCAT5), the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) and the ImPACT Quick. Follow-up will be at 24-48 hours in-hospital and remotely via telephone and email at 14 days and 6 months.
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Toman E, Riley M, Hodgson S, Yakoub KM, Cooper L, Bishop J, Naumann DN, Welbury R, Hammond D, Di Pietro V, Belli A. Concussion in Non-athletes: Assessment of Cognition and Symptomatology (CONTACTS) study protocol - an exploratory cohort study investigating the utility of sports concussion assessment tools and salivary microRNAs to diagnose concussion in NHS patients. BMJ Open. 2022 Sep 21;12(9):e062030. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062030.
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