Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16020254
Title: Dangers of mixed martial arts in the development of chronic traumatic encephalopathy
Authors: Lim, L.J.H
Ho, R.C.M 
Ho, C.S.H
Keywords: memantine
methylphenidate
brain
disease
neurology
adult
Article
ataxia
auditory memory
benzodiazepine dependence
case report
chronic traumatic encephalopathy
clinical article
electroencephalography
executive function
fatigue
follow up
human
lumbar puncture
male
martial art
memory test
neuropsychological test
nuclear magnetic resonance imaging
physical examination
tremor
visual attention
visual memory
working memory
brain concussion
chronic traumatic encephalopathy
pathology
pathophysiology
Adult
Brain Concussion
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Humans
Male
Martial Arts
Issue Date: 2019
Citation: Lim, L.J.H, Ho, R.C.M, Ho, C.S.H (2019). Dangers of mixed martial arts in the development of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 16 (2) : 254. ScholarBank@NUS Repository. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16020254
Abstract: Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) was first discovered in professional boxers after they exhibited memory impairments, mood and behavioral changes after years of boxing. However, there is now a growing acceptance that CTE can develop in athletes of other sports due to the repetitive head trauma they receive. We present a case of a middle-aged male who presented with worsening memory, poor concentration, and behavioral changes for a year. On further cognitive testing, it was revealed that he had difficulties with short-term memory and processing speed as well as difficulties in organizing and multitasking. He had been practicing mixed martial arts (MMA) for 10 years, and later was an instructor of the sport. Through a detailed examination of his history, it was discovered that he sustained recurrent minor head concussions due to his line of work. To date, there has been limited large-scale research on head trauma in MMA. There is thus an urgent need for more studies in this area as CTE can be a chronic and debilitating illness with incapacitating neuropsychiatric sequelae. This case highlights the importance of public awareness of the risks of MMA and the dangers it poses to the brain, especially with more young people being attracted to this sport. © 2019 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
Source Title: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
URI: https://scholarbank.nus.edu.sg/handle/10635/176187
ISSN: 1661-7827
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16020254
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