As if cognitive risks like Alzhermier’s weren’t already worrying enough, experts now predict that dementia risk is on the rise, with cases projected to double by 2060. Considering that recent studies have revealed around 42% of people over the age of 55 in the US have dementia as it stands, this increase, which is largely thought to result from an ever-aging population, would spell a far-reaching problem.
However, hope isn’t lost quite yet, because earlier this month, the FDA approved marketing for the first blood test used to diagnose Alzheimer’s on the main medical stage. This test was developed by the Pennsylvania-based biotechnology company Fujirebio Diagnostics Inc. When speaking of the FDA approval, Center for Devices and Radiological Health Director Michelle Tarver, M.D., Ph.D said, “Today’s clearance is an important step for Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, making it easier and potentially more accessible for U.S. patients earlier in the disease.”
This test, which has officially been given the catchy name of ‘Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio’, might not halt dementia progression, but it is a promising first step in increasing early interventions. In this article, we’ll be considering everything you need to know about what Alzheimer’s blood tests mean moving forward.
Picture Credit: CC0 LicenseWho is the Test For?
If you were planning to book yourself in for these tests as a regular part of your healthcare routine, then think again. With Alzheimer’s blood testing still being so fresh from the clinical trial stage, it’s currently only available for individuals over the age of 55 who are already showing signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
It’s also important to note that the test, itself,l isn’t a standalone tool for diagnosis. If you suspect you’re experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s, it’s still essential to work with a healthcare provider who will also consider personal factors including medical history and cognitive evaluations.
How Does the Blood Test Work?
‘Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio testing works by measuring two blood plasma proteins, pTau217, and beta-amyloid 1-42. A ratio of these proteins tends to correlate with hallmarks of Alzheimer’s, such as the occurrence or absence of amyloid plaques in the brain.
As mentioned, blood testing right now still sits alongside other hallmark techniques for Alzhemier’s diagnosis, which may also include use of imaging techniques like PET scans. However, the hope is that the ongoing development of blood test diagnosis will increase accessibility for patients without the financial means to cover these more costly diagnostic procedures.
Why is it Beneficial?
Fujirebio Diagnostics initially designed their blood test to increase the prevalence of early diagnosis, which can have a huge impact on Alzheimer’s prognosis. Many experts believe that this increased uptake of early recognition will facilitate the development and enhancement of new drug therapies, which right now include experimental options like Donepezil, Rivastigmine, and noopept powder. Blood tests also stand to significantly simplify Alzheimer’s diagnosis by increasing accessibility, and shortening what can be a long, and complicated process as it stands.
FDA approval was given on May 16th, and already Alzheimer’s blood testing looks set to change thousands of lives.