Basse Terre

Researchers are investigating how the S100B protein blood levels vary among individuals with different ethnic backgrounds, particularly in Guadeloupe where the majority have a Black phenotype. This study aims to confirm if physiological levels of S100B protein differ by skin phenotype, which is important because current thresholds for using S100B to reduce CT scans in minor traumatic brain injury may not accurately apply to this population. Prior studies suggest higher S100B levels in Black individuals, but data is limited and variable. The study will involve hospital staff from the University Hospital of Guadeloupe and the Hospital of Basse-Terre who meet eligibility criteria. Participants will provide informed consent, complete an anonymous questionnaire about their ethnicity, age, sex, and weight, and provide a blood sample. This sample will be analyzed at the hospital laboratory to measure the S100B protein level and assess its correlation with ethnicity and skin phototype. Participants will be involved in completing questionnaires and blood collection during the study. Researchers will measure baseline S100B protein levels and analyze these in relation to ethnicity and skin phototype. The study is observational, and no treatments or interventions are administered. The information gathered will help improve the use of S100B testing in clinical practice for populations with diverse ethnic backgrounds, over the course of the study period ending in August 2025.