The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry has published new research that may help in the diagnosis of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This disease is commonly seen amongst individuals in contact sports or occupations where head injury is a persistent threat. In the past, diagnosis could only be made during the autopsy. Without a diagnosis, further research into risk factors, symptoms and potential treatments has been nearly impossible.The primary marker for the disease is called the tau protein. The small study on former professional football players found that tau proteins in the brain can be positively identified with the concurrent use of a radioactive marker and PET scan. Downsides to this study, including small sample size and difficulty in differentiating tau proteins from beta amyloid proteins seen in Alzheimer's, were noted by critics.
Brain Injury Archives
Accident survivor looks to build support for brain injury victims
Chicago residents know that the consequences of a catastrophic motor vehicle accident can follow a person for their entire life. Even though some accident victims face seemingly impossible odds for recovery, the human spirit still can find a way to persevere.
Tragedy strikes amid NFL brain injury lawsuit
Chicago is a city that takes the game of football rather seriously. The Bears are an important aspect of the city's character. Recent class action suits issued against the National Football have left many football fans concerned about the health of former players.
