These blood biomarkers remained elevated up to 12 weeks after concussion, particularly in athletes with loss of consciousness. This supports their potential role in guiding safer return-to-play decisions.

This review summarizes evidence on GFAP, ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1), and other biomarkers for concussion diagnosis and monitoring. More large-scale studies are needed before clinical adoption.

Lower levels of GFAP, NfL, and tau protein in some chronic TBI cases were unexpectedly linked to worse mood and cognitive symptoms. This shows that biomarker changes are complex and can persist years after injury.

Elevated GFAP and UCH-L1 within the first year after traumatic brain injury (TBI) predicted increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. This underscores the importance of early monitoring.