Predictive Utility of Diffusion MRI After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Civilian Populations: A Systematic Review

A considerable number of people experience persisting symptoms and functional limitations after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). It is unclear whether subtle white matter changes contribute to this phenomenon. In this systematic review, the authors evaluated whether microstructural white matter indices on advanced MRI are related to clinical dysfunction among patients without abnormalities on standard brain computed tomography (CT) or MRI (uncomplicated mTBI).

A search of multiple databases was performed. Studies with individuals who experienced blast-related, sports-related, or multiple mTBIs were excluded. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) metrics and cognitive, neuropsychiatric, or functional outcome measures were extracted from each study.

Thirteen studies were selected (participants with mTBI, N=553; healthy control group, N=438). Seven DTI studies evaluated cognitive function, with five reporting significant correlations between reduced white matter integrity and deficits in attention, processing speed, and executive function at 6–12 months after injury (three studies included only individuals with uncomplicated mTBI). Four studies found significant correlations between DTI metrics and persistent postconcussive symptoms after 3–12 months (one study included only individuals with uncomplicated mTBI). Two SWI studies reported conflicting findings regarding the relationship between the presence of microbleeds and postconcussive symptoms.

The results revealed that indices of microstructural white matter integrity may relate to clinical presentation 3–12 months after injury in uncomplicated mTBI. However, analysis methods and brain regions studied varied across studies. Further research is needed to identify relationships between white matter indices in specific brain regions and symptom persistence beyond 12 months.