New blood test could revolutionize concussion diagnosis in the NHL

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Mark Parsons
August 3, 2024 (5:03 PM)

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Concussions have long been a critical issue in the NHL, with significant challenges in diagnosing and treating these head injuries. Players often struggle to recognize or admit when they're not feeling right, creating a gap in effective management.

However, a promising new development could soon change this.

New FDA-approved blood test help NHL in its concussion protocol

Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic reports on a potential breakthrough: an FDA-approved blood test that might eliminate the uncertainties surrounding concussion diagnosis. This test could fill the gaps in the current protocols, which have shown weaknesses, such as when Brad Marchand played 15 additional shifts despite having a concussion during a playoff series against the Florida Panthers.

The NHL's current Concussion Evaluation and Management Protocol involves removing a player from the ice for assessment in a distraction-free environment if they exhibit symptoms like a vacant look or slowness in getting up. Players who report feeling slowed down or not quite right must also undergo evaluation. These assessments, however, rely heavily on subjective symptoms that aren't always unique to concussions.

One key component of the current evaluation process is the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool � 5th Edition (SCAT5). This comprehensive test includes tasks like recalling dates, repeating word series, and reciting months in reverse. Despite its thoroughness, it doesn't completely remove the guesswork involved in concussion diagnosis.

The proposed blood test offers a more objective solution. When a player is suspected of having a concussion, a small blood sample is taken and analyzed using a device similar to a supermarket scanner. This device measures levels of UCH-L1 and GFAP�biomarkers that, if elevated, indicate a likely concussion.

Adopting this blood test in the NHL could revolutionize how concussions are detected and managed, allowing for immediate and accurate diagnosis. This advancement not only promises to enhance player safety by preventing further damage but also ensures that concussions are treated with the seriousness they deserve.

Source: Blade of Steel
New method to diagnose concussions could lead to breakthrough in the NHL