FDA approves 1st blood test to detect concussions: 6 things to know

The FDA approved the first blood test in the U.S. to help physicians detect mild traumatic brain injury, or concussions, in adults.

Here are six things to know.

1. Currently, patients are diagnosed with a concussion based on a combination of symptoms followed by a CT scan of the head to detect brain tissue damage. A majority of patients with mTBI do not have detectable lesions on their brain, which often makes the CT scan come back negative.

2. The new blood test works by measuring the level of two proteins, UCH-L1 and GFAP, which are released from the brain into the blood. Elevated levels of these two proteins can be detected 15 to 20 minutes post injury.

3. The blood test, called the Banyan Brain Trauma Indicator, can work up to 12 hours post injury. Results can be obtained within three to four hours.

4. The blood test can help healthcare personnel determine the need for a CT scan in patients suspected of having mTBI. This could help prevent unnecessary testing and radiation exposure.

5. CNN reports the blood test could help reduce costs significantly. While a CT can cost between $800 and $1,500, analysts predict the blood test will cost around $150. 

6. Approval for the Banyan Brain Trauma Indicator was granted to Banyan Biomarkers.

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