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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess memory in individuals who suffer from post-concussion syndrome (PCS) with comorbid anxiety and/or depressive symptoms. While much of the literature highlights concussions at the time of injury, symptom presentation, and short-term recovery, little research considers PCS, a common condition that consists of symptoms that last past the typical three-month recovery period. Many individuals with PCS complain of physical, affective, and cognitive symptoms. Cognitive symptoms, a primary impairment for 15% of sufferers typically include dizziness, headaches, memory loss, and a decrease in concentration. An overwhelming number of patients diagnosed with PCS also report depression and anxiety. Based on the literature, this study predicted that individuals with PCS and anxiety and/or depressive symptoms will perform worse on standardized cognitive measures compared to controls. This study utilized a convenience sample to qualitatively compose six control participants and one PCS participant. The researchers assessed percentile rank and performance of memory compared to controls. The patient performed in the highest percentile for six out of eight measures and scored in the lowest percentile for two of the eight measures. This study illustrates techniques that can be applied to larger studies aimed at evaluating the long-term consequences of concussions. Future research should strive for equal groups to increase power and assess significance.

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