Scientists have moved a step closer to diagnosing chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, in living people, The Guardian reported. The degenerative brain condition is caused by repeated trauma to the head, the outlet said.
According to The Guardian, a study found a blood biomarker that identifies an advanced form of the disease. The report's summary did not describe how the biomarker was measured, how many people took part in the study, or how the test compares with existing methods.
The Guardian said CTE is prevalent in rugby and American football. The summary did not give figures for either sport, and it did not say how many players are affected.
The report, written by Sean Ingle, said scientists are optimistic of a "significant breakthrough." The summary did not explain what that breakthrough would involve in clinical practice, or when it might reach patients.
The summary also began to explain how CTE is currently identified, but it cuts off before giving that explanation. Readers seeking the full account of the research will need to consult the complete article.
The findings rest on a single report from The Guardian. No other outlet's coverage of the study was reviewed for this story.
Sources: The Guardian: Scientists find blood biomarker that opens door to CTE diagnosis in living patients.