MACE Study Guide 2026

Research suggests that repeated exposure to blast overpressure during training (breaching, artillery, heavy weapons) may cause subclinical brain changes over time, leading to concerns about occupational exposure limits.

Concussion is a functional (not structural) brain injury that disrupts normal neural function through metabolic cascade, ionic imbalance, and neuroinflammation, usually with normal CT and MRI findings.

The MACE is designed to be administered by trained military medical personnel including combat medics, corpsmen, physician assistants, and physicians.

The MACE focuses on neurological and cognitive assessments relevant to concussion, such as symptom evaluation, cognitive screening (memory, orientation), and neurological screening (balance, coordination). A physical endurance test, which measures stamina and physical exertion, is not a component of the MACE neurological examination as it does not directly assess concussion-related brain function.

Cognitive rehabilitation may include progressive cognitive loading (reading, problem-solving), compensatory strategies (note-taking, checklists), targeted attention/memory training, and education about normal recovery expectations.

The Military Acute Concussion Evaluation (MACE) is specifically designed as a standardized tool for healthcare providers to assess service members immediately following a suspected concussion. Its primary purpose is to identify and evaluate the acute symptoms and cognitive deficits associated with a recent mild traumatic brain injury. This allows for timely diagnosis and appropriate management.