UPMC Salvator Mundi: New Tests for the Diagnosis of TBI

12 August 2025

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): New Biomarkers UCH-L1 and GFAP for a Simpler, Faster, and More Accurate Diagnosis

The Laboratory at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital, led by Dr. Isabella Oliviero, is expanding its range of services with the introduction of new biomarkers UCH-L1 and GFAP, dedicated to the early diagnosis of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Timely identification of brain injuries represents a significant clinical challenge: an accurate diagnosis in the first hours after the trauma can reduce the risk of long-term neurological damage.

• UCH-L1 (ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase l1): released by neurons, increases as early as one hour after the traumatic event.
• GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein): produced by glial cells, offers a diagnostic window of up to 12 hours post-injury.

Both biomarkers can be measured through blood drawing, with results available within minutes.

Thanks to their high analytical sensitivity and strong negative predictive value in detecting acute-phase intracranial injuries visible on CT scans, UCH-L1 and GFAP are valuable tools for:

• Initial diagnostic assessment.
• Evaluating treatment effectiveness.
• Monitoring the progression of brain injury.
• Patient risk stratification.

The introduction of these tests enhances collaboration among specialists (laboratory physicians, neurologists, radiologists, emergency physicians) and clinical departments, ensuring innovative, streamlined, and rapid care pathways focused on patient benefit.

Learn more about the Lab tests available at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital.