Validity of the Immediate Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT)
Sports Medicine
Alsalaheen, B., Stockdale, K., et al. (2016).
Sports Medicine, 46(10), 1487-1501.
This systematic review investigates the validity of the Immediate Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) in individuals ages 12-59 with suspected traumatic brain injury (TBI).
No funding received
January 1999-November 2015
Studies published in English (not further specified)
69
<p>The ImPACT demonstrates convergent validity as a cognitive measure after concussion. Its discriminant and predictive validity, diagnostic accuracy, and utility after symptoms have resolved is sparse or inconclusive. Specific findings included:</p>
<ul>
<li>In two of the four studies that examined diagnostic accuracy, The ImPACT showed a sensitivity of 62.5%-83% when administered within 72 hours of concussion.</li>
<li>The overall sensitivity rose to 79.2-81.9% when the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale was included.</li>
<li>Within included studies, the ImPACT's validity was threatened by other factors such as testing environment, exertion, and intentional "throwing" of the test to depress baseline scores. </li>
</ul>
<div>Additional research is warranted due to the limited quality and quantity of included studies for individuals with suspected TBI.</div>
