Radiologic Imaging of Sports-Induced Brain Injuries

TBI can occur in a wide range of sports activities. Lesions are most commonly caused by impact (contact sports) or activities involving high velocity. Acute sports-related injuries are indistinguishable from head trauma sustained in other accidents. Recurring craniocerebral injuries, such as in sustained in contact sports, can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This condition is a tauopathy, which is caused by repetitive mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Players of contact sports, such as rugby, hockey, boxing, or American football, have an increased risk of acquiring this condition.