Use of biomarkers for diagnosis and management of traumatic brain injury patients

Background: Advances in the understanding of human biochemistry and physiology have provided insight into new pathways by which we can understand traumatic brain injury (TBI). Increased sophistication of laboratory techniques and developments in the field of proteomics has led to the discovery and rapid detection of new biomarkers not previously available. Objective: To review recent advances in biomarker research for traumatic brain injury, describe the features of the ideal biomarker and to explore the potential role of these biomarkers in improving clinical management of brain injured patients. Methods: Through a literature review of recent research on TBI biomarkers and through experience with TBI research, important elements of biomarker development are described together with potential applications to patient care. Conclusions: TBI biomarkers could have a significant impact on patient care by assisting in the diagnosis, risk stratification and management of TBI. Biomarkers could provide major opportunities for the conduct of clinical research, including confirmation of injury mechanism(s) and drug target identification. Continuing studies by the authors' group are now being conducted to elucidate more fully the relationships between new biomarkers and severity of injury and clinical outcomes in all severities of TBI patients.