Convergence Peak Velocity: An Objective, Non-Invasive, Oculomotor-Based Biomarker for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI)/Concussion

Abstract

Over the past several years, there has been a search for an objective biomarker to detect the presence of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)/concussion, especially one of a non-invasive nature. Recent advances and laboratory experimentation involving the abnormal oculomotor system in these individuals has suggested one very strong candidate: convergence peak velocity, which was found to be significantly reduced in all subjects tested. This vergence parameter can be rapidly and easily assessed using automated eye movement recording and analysis systems in a full range of environments, including the sports arena and the military theater, as well as one’s optometric practice, with a very low false positive rate, thus improving the early clinical diagnosis.