Rochester Investigating Blood Test for Concussions
The University Of Rochester Medical Center received $1.5 million to develop a blood test for concussions by isolating proteins that can predict memory loss, chronic headaches or other neurological problems. At least one million Americans seek treatment for head injuries each year. However, many people initially assume their injury is mild and do not visit a doctor until after they experience cognitive difficulties. A rapid test that could be administered in brain injury incidents would give medical personnel a head start and offer clues about the extent of the brain injury. The blood test would help doctors diagnose axonal injury, a type of brain injury that often occurs after a concussion but does not show up on a CT scan of the brain. Diagnosis of axonal injury is difficult because CT scans are designed to detect bleeding in the brain and not more subtle injury to neurons, the cells responsible for cognitive functioning. Axons make up the bulk of the neuron’s structure and travel in clusters, providing a connection to different areas of the brain through delicate, spaghetti-like strands. When axon fibers are stretched or strained, they stop working and the entire cell dies. Blows to the head, falls, or sudden deceleration from motor vehicle accidents can cause axonal injuries.
Continue reading "Rochester Investigating Blood Test for Concussions" »
