Proposed objective visual system biomarkers for mild traumatic brain injury

Abstract

The challenge and search for objectively based biomarkers to assess for the presence of concussion/mild traumatic brain injury is a high priority for the military establishment. We present a documented overview of specific test areas and related targeted, high-yield, objectively based parameters that may be potential “vision biomarkers” for the detection of concussion/mild traumatic brain injury based on results from our laboratory and others, with emphasis on oculomotor aspects. These findings have military relevance with respect to the initial diagnosis in the battlefield and in the far-forward medical facilities, pre-/postdeployment issues, pre-/postvisual rehabilitation evaluation, fitness-for-duty assessment, and establishment of a return-to-duty timeline.