Nevropsykologiske senskader hos boksere: en systematisk gjennomgang

Abstract

Background: The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the risk of neuropsychological sequelae from boxing. Method: We conducted a systematic search in the databases Medline, Embase, PsychInfo and Web of Science. Studies with boxers, control groups, using neuropsychological assessment and brain-imaging/biomarkers were included. Nine articles met these criteria. Results: The results revealed that processing speed was reduced in six of the nine studies among both amateur and professional boxers. Processing speed correlated negatively with volume of thalamus and number of boxing fights (fight exposure). Three studies found reduced fine motoric skills among professional boxers, but not among amateur boxers. Boxers with more than 15 years of experience had significantly reduced verbal memory compared to controls. Eight of the nine studies found that both amateur and professional boxers had reduced cognitive capacity and/or positive findings on biomarkers. Conclusion: Based on the results, it is reasonable to assume that neuropsychological sequelae are related to career length and number of fights. There may be a dose–response relationship between the number of punches to the head and the risk of neuropsychological sequelae. Methodological limitations (such as low statistical power and short-term follow-up) should be taken into consideration. There is a need for more longitudinal studies to further investigate neuropsychological sequelae of boxing. Keywords: boxing, neuropsychological sequelae, head injury