Quick, simple sideline test for concussion

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- The King-Devick test, which can be conducted on the sidelines of sporting events, can accurately detect concussions in athletes, U.S. researchers say.

Senior author Dr. Laura Balcer of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine says the 1-minute test involves an athlete reading single digit numbers displayed on index-sized cards. Monitoring any increase in the time needed -- compared to the baseline test time -- suggests a concussion has occurred, particularly if the delay is greater than 5 seconds.

The test captures eye movement impairments, attention, language and other symptoms of impaired brain function, Balcer says.

"This rapid screening test provides an effective way to detect early signs of concussion, which can improve outcomes and hopefully prevent repetitive concussions," Balcer says in a statement. "If validated in future studies, this test has the potential to become a standard sideline test for athletes."

Lead author Kristin Galetta says concussion is not visible on the routine scans done on the brain, yet is detectable when we measure important aspects of brain function, such as vision.

"This test is only one test on the sidelines, though, and the diagnosis of concussion requires a combination of tests and input of medical professionals," Galetta says.