Erie Brain Injury Lawyers Brain Trauma Mistaken For Als

September 13, 2010 — People with a history of brain trauma like concussions are being mis-diagnosed as suffering from A.L.S., a new study has found. The long term effects of brain injury can mimic the appearance of the disease known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. The study suggests the developing complexity and body of knowledge that should be considered in the handling of any case involving head or brain injury.

In a study published in the Journal of Neuropathology and Experimental Neurology , researchers report that people with a history of concussions and brain injury are frequently mis-diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (A.L.S. or “Lou Gehrig’s Disease”). The mis-diagnosis is often not identified until post-mortem autopsies are performed because the symptoms of long term brain injury mirror those of A.L.S. and only post-mortem findings allow researchers to distinguish between the two.

The paper raises the possibility that Lou Gehrig himself may have been mis-diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease. Mr. Gehrig was well known for playing through injury and suffered multiple head injuries in his career. The paper does not specifically address Mr. Gehrig and it is likely that no one will ever know for sure whether Mr. Gehrig actually had A.L.S. or post-traumatic brain damage because he was cremated after his death.

Of more significance to personal injury lawyers is the fact that researchers are routinely learning more about the insidious long term effects of brain trauma. This latest study is but one example. For the lawyer handling brain injury cases the spectre of long term consequence is something that should be addressed in pre-trial investigation and, where warranted, properly prepared and presented for a jury’s consideration through expert testimony.

If you or a loved one has suffered a head injury, the Erie brain injury lawyers at Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. can help. As skilled Erie injury lawyers who have helped injured clients and their families with traumatic brain injuries and postconcussion syndrome, we understand how to evaluate these cases and help you obtain the funds necessary to pay for medical care and surgery, if needed.

Call Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. today, toll free 814-273-2010 to schedule your free and confidential consultation.

We will fight for your legal rights to the money and resources you need to fix what can be fixed, help what can be helped and make up for what cannot be fixed or helped.