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"Mild" Traumatic Brain Injury? Univ. of Penn. study says no such thing

Posted Thursday, December 3, 2015 by Pivotal Law Group

AxonsA study led by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and the University of Glasgow found that "seemingly mild, concussion-type head injuries lead to long-term cognitive impairments surprisingly often" and "can cause permanent damage."

Although some sufferers of "mild" Traumatic Brain Injury or concussion make a full recovery, recent studies suggest roughly one in five concussions leads to cognitive impairments lasting several months or longer.

This new study looked at a brain protein called SNTF, which rises after some concussions. The study found that increased SNTF was associated with "diffuse axonal injury"--dying cells responsible for transferring nerve impulses.

These results suggest two things. First, "mild" Traumatic Brain Injury may be an oxymoron; there's nothing mild about any injury to the brain. Second, Traumatic Brain Injury may soon be identifiable by a simple blood test.

For more information, go to http://www.uphs.upenn.edu/news/News_Releases/2015/11/smith/

If you are in an accident and think you are suffering from a Traumatic Brain Injury, please contact our office at (206) 340-2008.

Photo credit: http://www.uphs.upenn.edu/news/News_Releases/2015/11/smith/smith_large.jpg