An easy and simple method for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's: Scientists have identified a blood test that can detect signs of Alzheimer's up to 15 years before symptoms appear. Experts believe that this test will revolutionize the early diagnosis of the disease.
Research conducted under the guidance of University College London suggests that this test is more accurate and better than other tests, particularly less invasive lumbar punctures.
Experts say that this test, measuring the amount of a protein called P-tau 217 in the blood, could streamline screening programs at the national level for individuals aged 50 and above, enabling better treatment after early disease diagnosis.
The test works by detecting changes in the brain that occur during Alzheimer's disease. This indicator can provide insight into the severity of the condition, potentially eliminating the need for further painful investigations.
Professor David Curtis of the Genetics Institute at University College London stated that individuals over the age of 50 could be offered regular screenings every few years, similar to cholesterol checks.
He mentioned that current treatments can work more effectively after the early diagnosis of the disease.
Research conducted at the University College London, as part of a study led by Dr. Ashton Nichols at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, involved experiments on 786 individuals, with the results published in the journal Neurology.