Associations between neurochemistry and quality-of-life symptoms following sports-related concussion in adolescent athletes

Motivation: Neurochemical mechanisms of physical deficits following sports-related concussion among adolescent athletes are unclear. Goal(s): To determine if 1H-MRS reveals biochemical processes associated with self-reported quality-of-life ratings after concussion. Approach: MRS of the PCG and ACG were conducted within 3 weeks of concussion, alongside self-reported quality-of-life ratings using PROMIS Pediatric Physical Function, Fatigue, and Pain Interference domains. Results: In the PCG, tNAA, Glx, tCr, and mI were all negatively correlated with Physical Function, while tNAA and Glx were negatively correlated with Fatigue, and Glx and tCr were negatively correlated with Pain Interference. In the ACG, mI and tCho were negatively associated with Physical Function. Impact: This study examines anterior and posterior cingulate gyri neurochemistry using magnetic resonance spectroscopy in sports-related concussed adolescents, identifying associations with self-reported quality-of-life ratings. These findings improve our understanding of biochemical factors influencing recovery-related quality-of-life after concussion, better protecting athlete health.