Second impact syndrome
The rare syndrome describes a concussion superimposed on a first concussion that has not yet resolved, leading to diffuse and catastrophic cerebral edema. Controversies surround the syndrome: (McLendon 2016)
- Is cerebral edema related to the second impact or is it merely a progression of the first
- The duration between concussions
- The pathophysiology of the syndrome, and whether subdural hematomas or other structural anomalies play a significant role
- The significant predominance of cases isolated to the United States
References
McLendon, L. A., Kralik, S. F., Grayson, P. A. & Golomb, M. R. The Controversial Second Impact Syndrome: A Review of the Literature. Pediatr. Neurol. 62, 9–17 (2016). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27421756/