Blood Test May Help Identify, Monitor Concussion

According to a recent study that appeared online in JAMA Neurology, a new blood test may help indicate the severity of concussion, as well as length of patient recovery time. Swedish researchers say they have found a way to test for total tau (T-tau) protein, which is released when the brain is injured. T-tau levels are instrumental in diagnosing a concussion and predicting return to play for athletes. “We have a biomarker [indicator] that is elevated in the blood of players with a concussion,” said lead researcher Dr. Pashtun Shahim, from the department of neurochemistry at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Molndal. “The level of T-tau within the first hour after concussion correlates with the number of days you have symptoms. We can use this biomarker to both diagnose concussion and to monitor the course of concussion until the patient is free of symptoms.” To read more about this study, click here.