Concussions can happen in many situations. They are common injuries that occur from sports accidents and car accidents, to workplace accidents and falls.
In the past diagnosing concussions often required a CT scan. This can be expensive and time-consuming. Abbott Laboratories’ new blood test may be able to change this.
What is a concussion?
Concussions are mild brain injuries that occur when the head gets hit, shaken or jolted. This can lead to a number of symptoms including headaches and dizziness. It may also cause confusion and memory issues.
The diagnosis of concussions is often based on the patient’s symptoms and medical history. A neurological examination may also be used. These methods are not always reliable, and symptoms can appear hours or days after an injury.
It can be difficult to diagnose concussions and treat them effectively.
Abbott Receives FDA Approval for New Blood Test
Abbott, a manufacturer of medical devices, received FDA approval for the first commercially-available laboratory blood test to detect traumatic brain injuries (concussions).
This new test could revolutionize how we diagnose and treat concussions. It could save time and resources for both patients and healthcare providers.
What is the TBI blood test?
Abbott’s new TBI test measures the levels of two proteins released into bloodstream following a head trauma: glial fiber acidic protein (GFAP), and ubiquitin-carboxy-terminal-hydrolase L1(UCH-L1). These biomarkers can be used to determine the severity and presence of concussions.
The test is quick and easy. The Alinity i lab instrument from Abbott analyzes a small amount of blood taken from the patient. The test can provide results in 18 minutes. This allows clinicians to quickly assess and triage patients who may have suffered concussions.
The new technology will allow healthcare providers to diagnose concussions more quickly, which will reduce waiting times in hospitals and help patients receive treatment sooner.
Don’t Underestimate Concussions
Concussions, while often regarded as mild injuries, should not be undervalued. Concussions have serious long-term effects, and repeated concussions may increase the risk for long-term brain injury.
The new TBI Blood Test from Abbott can help diagnose concussions faster and more accurately than ever, improving patient outcomes.