Abstract

Background: Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a neurodegenerative disease often associated with repetitive head trauma, commonly observed in athletes involved in contact sports. While CTE has been extensively studied in older adults, there is growing concern about its early onset and manifestation in younger individuals who experience repeated concussions.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the early onset of CTE and the progression of its symptoms in younger populations. It evaluates the clinical and pathological characteristics of CTE in individuals under the age of 30 and compares these findings with those of older patients.

Methods: We conducted a comprehensive review of clinical records and neuroimaging studies from a cohort of young patients diagnosed with CTE. We also performed post-mortem brain analyses on a subset of these individuals to identify pathological hallmarks associated with early CTE. Symptoms, including cognitive impairment, mood disorders, and behavioral changes, were documented and analyzed in relation to the duration and severity of head trauma exposure.

Results: The study identified early onset symptoms of CTE, including significant cognitive deficits, mood instability, and behavioral disturbances, in individuals as young as 18 years old. Pathological examination revealed distinct CTErelated tau pathology in these younger brains, though the severity and distribution differed from older cases. Early onset was often associated with a history of frequent concussions and repetitive sub-concussive impacts.

Conclusion: CTE can manifest at a younger age than previously recognized, with both early and delayed symptoms affecting cognitive function and emotional stability. The findings underscore the need for preventive measures and early intervention strategies to manage and mitigate the risks of CTE in young individuals involved in contact sports.