Chronic Brain Injury Associated with Boxing

Prevention

In view of the limited and proven treatment protocols for CTBI, the prevention of CTBI remains of paramount importance. The mainstay of preventing CTBI in boxing is to limit excessive exposure. This would be best accomplished by detailed medical surveillance and supervision of active boxers by the regulatory agencies (i.e., state boxing commissions), as advocated by federal legislation.^[63] Boxers at high risk for CTBI (e.g., older boxers, boxers with long careers, poor performers, boxers with multiple concussions) can be identified and required to undergo more detailed neurological evaluation to determine whether they are experiencing the untoward effects of boxing. If a boxer is noted to be experiencing neurological deterioration, that boxer should be prohibited from continued participation in the sport.

The potential genetic predisposition to CTBI needs to be investigated further. Theoretically, if APOE genotype is a modifier of an athlete's risk in developing CTBI, then genetic testing might be a viable option. However, this concept is extremely controversial.^[64]

In addition to APOE genotyping, the role of neuroprotection in the prevention of CTBI needs to be investigated. Whether antioxidants such as vitamin E or neuroprotective agents such as selegiline are effective in reducing the extent of brain injury remains to be established.

Cite this: Chronic Traumatic Brain Injury Associated with Boxing - Medscape - Jun 01, 2000.

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