Diagnostic Considerations in Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy

Authors: Ashley Merrell, Kira Brady

SUNY Campus: SUNY Morrisville

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 32

Timeslot: Session A 9:00-10:00 AM

Abstract: Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive neurodegenerative brain disease primarily caused by repetitive head trauma most commonly associated with concussions in the acute setting and only confirmed by the means of post-mortem autopsy. CTE primarily affects military veterans and athletes who play contact sports due to the nature of continued exposure to the nature of each environment. Often debilitating, this diagnosis most commonly goes untreated due to limited testing modalities and treatment options available in modern medicine. This paper discusses the evolution of the traditional methods of post-mortem diagnosis to potential diagnostic methods utilizing specific biomarkers, neuropsychological testing and neuroimaging. Addressing genetic factors involving the ApoE4 allele, advances in the tau- based PET and MRI imaging may allow for early diagnosis and differentiation between CTE and other common neurodegenerative diseases. Examining the importance of developing cost-effective diagnostic testing as a means to early detection of CTE could also lead to the development of new preventative measures which can positively impact the quality of life in CTE high risk populations.