Name
#184 - TBI and Neuroinflammation: Restoring health with biomarkers and anti-inflammatory products
Date & Time
Monday, February 12, 2024, 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Description

Central neuropathic pain, a complex and debilitating condition, has emerged as a significant concern among veterans suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI). Traumatic brain injury, resulting from combat-related incidents or other military-related activities, is a prevalent health issue affecting military personnel, leading to various physical, cognitive, and psychological sequelae. Among these, neuropathic pain presents a formidable challenge due to its persistent and refractory nature. It appears that the development of neuropathic pain is a consequence of the collective effects of free radicals such as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS), peroxynitrite, and the activation of glia derived pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, all yielding neuroinflammation. These all act to enhance pain receptor sensitivity via diminished effects of mu-receptors, endorphins, and enkephalins while promoting depression. Screening military personnel with a history of traumatic brain injury, using a blood-based biomarker panel, allows for the identification of trauma-inflammation related symptomatology that is frequently associated with hyperbolic pain, depression, anxiety, migraines and loss of combat readiness. Our treatment protocol has been based upon the results of this biomarker panel and frequently consists of correcting neurosteroid deficiencies, precipitated by trauma, and the concurrent use of anti-inflammatory nutraceuticals to address the neuro-disruptive neuroinflammation. To date, we have provided this program to over 1200 military personnel. In conclusion, addressing the cause for neuropathic pain in veterans and active-duty personnel with traumatic brain injury requires a comprehensive understanding of the multifactorial nature of the condition. By acknowledging the unique challenges faced by this population and implementing a holistic and tailored approach to treatment, healthcare providers can offer improved pain management and enhanced quality of life for these courageous individuals who have served their nation and want to continue to do so. Furthermore, early assessment and implementation of treatment can provide for a more rapid return to an active-duty status with full combat readiness, without the restrictions associated with the use of traditional medications.

Location Name
Prince Georges Exhibit Hall A/B
Content Presented on Behalf of
Other entity not listed
Learning Outcomes
1. Following this session, the attendee will be able to demonstrate the need to provide a comprehensive hormonal assessment that directs a hormonal treatment protocol as well as to address the cause; neuroinflammation.
2. Following this session, the attendee will be able to evaluate the neuroendocrine dysfunctions that are commonly associated with neurotrauma (TBI).
3. Following this session, the attendee will be able to interpret the post-traumatic biomarker panel that includes both neuroactive steroids and neurosteroids in order to provide a restorative treatment protocol.
Session Type
Posters
Dropdown Content Presented On Behalf Of:
Other entity not listed