The King-Devick Test of Rapid Number Naming for Concussion Detection: Meta-analysis and Systematic Review of the Literature

Overview

Journal Concussion

Date 2018 Sep 12

PMID 30202552

Citations 40

Authors

Kristin M Galetta

Mengling Liu

Danielle F Leong

Rachel E Ventura

Steven L Galetta

Laura J Balcer

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Vision encompasses a large component of the brain's pathways, yet is not represented in current sideline testing.

Objectives: We performed a meta-analysis of published data for a vision-based test of rapid number naming (King-Devick [K-D] test).

Studies & Methods: Pooled and meta-analysis of 15 studies estimated preseason baseline K-D scores and sensitivity/specificity for identifying concussed versus nonconcussed control athletes.

Result: Baseline K-D (n = 1419) showed a weighted estimate of 43.8 s (95% CI: 40.2, 47.5; = 0.0%; p=0.85 - indicating very little heterogeneity). Sensitivity was 86% (96/112 concussed athletes had K-D worsening; 95% CI: 78%, 92%); specificity was 90% (181/202 controls had no worsening; 95% CI: 85%, 93%).

Conclusion: Rapid number naming adds to sideline assessment and contributes a critical dimension of vision to sports-related concussion testing.

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