Scientists have developed highly accurate blood tests that can diagnose Alzheimer's disease with over 90% accuracy by measuring biomarkers like phosphorylated tau (p-tau217) and amyloid beta protein levels. The biomarkers correlate with cognitive decline, brain atrophy, and amyloid plaques, outperforming traditional methods.
The Precivity AD2 blood test measures tau and beta-amyloid proteins using mass spectrometry technology. With an accuracy of 91% compared to doctors' accuracy of 61-73% it outperforms neurologists and primary care doctors.
The blood tests represent a milestone in affordable and accessible ways to diagnose Alzheimer's, potentially helping primary care physicians determine which patients should be referred to specialists. Early diagnosis is crucial for the effectiveness of new drugs that can slow Alzheimer's progression.
While not yet approved by the FDA or recommended for asymptomatic individuals, the blood tests can help doctors identify who needs further evaluation, and reduce strain on specialist care.
The blood tests offer a cheaper and less invasive alternative to expensive PET scans and invasive spinal taps for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, and could decrease the time it takes from symptoms to diagnosis.
Scientists believe Alzheimer's disease is likely caused by abnormal build-up of proteins like amyloid and tau in the brain, and blood tests measure a form of tau that correlates with plaque buildup in the brain.
The Alzheimer's Association plans to update guidance on the use of high-quality blood tests for early Alzheimer's diagnosis
Sources: NBC News, Washington Post , Axios, ABC News, New York Times, Fox News, New York Post, The Hill, Japan Times, Straits Times, Manila Times, Times Now, Neuroscience News, Boston Globe, USA Today, CNN, Newsmax, MedPage Today, InternewsCast
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.
