The search for an objective reliable test for mild traumatic brain injury found an early promising result last week.
May be arriving in your hospital in the near future.
A handheld sideline version is sure to follow
The FDA approved the first blood test for concussion/mild TBI
Called the Banyan BTI (Brain Trauma Indicator)
This test measures 2 neural protein biomarkers released into the blood following mild TBI
The FDA approved this test within 6 months after reviewing data on just under 2,000 blood samples.
They concluded the Banyan BTI can predict the absence of cranial CT lesions with an accuracy greater than 99% and may reduce imaging in up to a 1/3rd
Be optimistic but consider the small sample size and remember that this test looks for biomarkers and may miss subtle cases where proteins didn’t leak. This test is NOT ready to be used for return to play decisions. It takes 3 to 4 hours to result and costs about $150. Other biomarkers are being investigated and may prove to be better
