Skip to Content
New Blood Test Can Detect Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
In USA TODAY, it was announced that the Army has developed a reliable new test to detect the presence of traumatic brain injury, an immense help to its troops who receive concussive injuries from bomb blasts and blount force injuries to the head. The test has significant applications in the legal setting where brain injury is often suspected but difficult and expensive to prove.
In the past proving traumatic brain injury where the effects are real but subtle usually takes time to recognize changes and expensive and less reliable tests such as neuropsychological evaluations, and in rare circumstances, brain MRIs to detect.
As reported on USNAVYSEALS.COM, ‘The blood test, according to Army Col. Dallas Hack, looks for unique proteins that find their way into the blood stream from damaged brain cells. The test was able to accurately detect mild traumatic brain injury in 34 patients involved in the research, which was overseen by Col. Hack. The Army scientists say that this new test can detect proteins in a patient’s simple blood sample that are specific to brain injury. That is, when the brain is injured it releases these proteins into the blood stream.”
Similar tests are available to detect heart attacks since heart muscles release a specific protein, troponin, when it has experienced an ischemic event.
Traumatic brain injuries can occur not only in serious accidents but also in less serious accidents such as in a workplace setting, motor vehicle crashes, slip and falls, assaults, medical malpractice, poisonings and overdoses, where the brain may be injured by direct or indirect force or loss of adequate blood supply, or as a result of toxic substances. The problem is convincing your physician to order the test as soon as possible once you suspect a possible brain injury. The symptoms are often subtle such as headache or dizziness. Be sure to ask your doctor for the test, it may prove invaluable in directing treatment and proving the extent of your injuries.
Share ThisFOR FREE No Win, No Fee
Review Us
“Forest, once again, my family and I thank you for obtaining another settlement on behalf of my Father. It’s almost uncanny that these checks seem to come at very opportune times. This one comes as we are expecting our fourth grandchild. It will provide her some sound footing towards her future college education, plus help Mom and Dad with the medical expenses. Sometimes, I think my Dad is helping you guys with this. Maybe so. Anyway, thank you again for your hard work.”
Contact Our North Carolina Personal Injury Law Firm
for a Consultation for Your Accident or Medical Malpractice Claim
FOR FREE No Win, No Fee
The law firm you choose makes a difference. If you are the victim of an accident or an illness that someone else caused, the North Carolina personal injury law firm of Martin & Jones has the depth of experience, skills and sensitivity to make your road to recovery as smooth as possible. Whether you have experience with the legal system or have never hired a medical malpractice or personal injury lawyer before, our attorneys and staff will do our best to answer your questions, provide clear advice and prepare you and your family for what to expect. If you would like more information or to meet with one of our attorneys, please fill out the form below or call us at 800.662.1234.