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A new study published in JAMA Neurology, claims that a blood test may help diagnose concussions and other serious traumatic brain injuries. Currently, doctors rely on symptoms and computed tomography (CT) scans to help diagnose concussions and traumatic brain injuries; however, it is difficult to assess the severity of the injury, and CT scans can be expensive and emit radiation exposure which can cause side effects in children.
According to scientists, the blood test could help distinguish the severity of the traumatic brain injury even up to a week after sustaining a head injury. Researchers studied two blood proteins and how the biomarkers change after head trauma. The markers are unique to head trauma injuries and can detect a concussion.
Concussions can have long-term problems, especially if they are left untreated. Scientists hope the blood tests will help emergency medical teams to be able to determine if a head injury is present as well as helping doctors decide which patients need to get a CT scan and follow up care.
The researchers plan on conducting more studies on a larger population of individuals and hope to have the blood test on the market in the next couple of years.
Traumatic brain injuries can cause long-term side effects. If you suffered head trauma due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation to help cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. For more information and a free case review, call (888) 444-8508 to see how a head injury lawyer may be able to help you.
