Introduction

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a type of dementia associated with repeated blows to the head and recurrent episodes of concussion.

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is particularly associated with contact sports, such as boxing or American football. Most of the available studies are based on ex-athletes.

It was previously known as "punch drunk" syndrome and dementia pugilistica. However,these terms are no longer used as it's now known that the condition isn't confined to ex-boxers.

There's still some debate about how widespread chronic traumatic encephalopathy is and how it should be diagnosed.

Currently, there are only supportive treatments available and research is focused on finding a reliable technique to diagnose the condition.

This topic covers:

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy

Causes

When to seek medical advice

Diagnosis

Treatment

Prevention

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 28 Nov 2016