Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping in Patients with Persistent-Post Concussion Symptoms

Twenty percent of people experience symptoms months to years following a concussion, known as persistent post concussive symptoms (PPCS). We used quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) to measure tissue susceptibility in white matter tracts of patients with PPCS. We provide preliminary evidence for alterations in white matter susceptibility in patients with PPCS and show that susceptibility levels are correlated with symptom severity. We hypothesise altered susceptibility is related to gliosis, resulting in sustained inflammation. Further, this study demonstrates the potential application of QSM to provide novel information on the pathophysiology of PPCS.