Multimodal Approach to Testing the Acute Effects of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI)

Subjects will undergo functional brain testing (magnetoencephalography, electroencephalography), anatomical brain imaging (diffusion tensor imaging, susceptibility-weighted imaging), neuropsychological testing (memory, language, processing speed), sleep patterns using actigraphy, and blood testing of candidate biomarkers. Testing will be done at 3 time points post-injury: 1 day, 14 days, and 30 days post-injury. Analysis of these tests collectively will be used to develop diagnostic tools for acute mTBI.

Inclusion criteria

• Civilian (non-military) presenting to HMH ED.

Exclusion criteria

• Prior history of diagnosed TBI.
• Other significant non-head injury/trauma or open wound.
• Other significant medical co-morbidities, such as heart disease or cancer.
• Self-reported current use or substances contributing to ED visit (e.g. illicit drugs, medications, alcohol abuse).
• Currently diagnosed psychological condition (e.g. depression, PTSD).
• Medications for psychological or neurological disorder.
• Any implanted metal, such as medical device or braces on teeth.
• Injury to the back or other injury that will make it difficult for the participant to tolerate tests.
• Injury to dominant arm that would cause difficulty using computer or responding to stimuli during functional imaging.
• Pregnancy.