First Living Person Diagnosed with CTE

Dec 06,2017

For the first time, researchers have diagnosed a living person with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is the degenerative brain disease that can develop after repetitive trauma to the head, which presents with Alzheimer’s like symptoms including memory loss, mood swings and suicidal thoughts.

Dr. Bennet Omalu—the man who discovered CTE—was the lead author on the study. He reported that the study subject was former FNL player Fred McNeill, who died in 2015.

Experimental Technology Identifies CTE in Living Subjects

Repeated head trauma can cause tau proteins to build up in the brain—the main identifier of CTE. Originally this buildup of protein could only be seen in an autopsy. However, Omalu’s team has developed an experimental technology that uses a radioactive tracer to bind to tau proteins in the brain. These proteins can then be seen in a brain scan. The technology has been used on other former NFL players, but McNeill’s case is the first to be confirmed with an autopsy.

Omalu and his team are raising money to begin a clinical trial to test the technology. If the tests go well, Omalu says a commercial test could be available in less than 5 years.

“This study is an important step toward helping people suffering from CTE,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.