Concussion Synonyms: Terminology for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Synonyms and related terms for concussion (mild TBI):

• Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) – preferred clinical term.
• Head injury / head trauma – broader (includes moderate/severe).
• Cerebral concussion – specifies brain involvement.
• Commotio cerebri – Latin medical term.
• Minor head injury – older synonym.
• Sports-related concussion (SRC) – athletic context.

Colloquial

• “Got my bell rung,” “ding,” “seeing stars,” “knocked silly.”

Clinical Definition (Consensus)

Trauma-induced transient neurologic dysfunction (LOC ≤30 min, GCS 13–15, PTA <24 h) without structural imaging abnormality.