A new blood test could make it easier for doctors to help determine whether a patient’s memory or thinking problems may be caused by Alzheimer’s disease.
The FDA has cleared Roche’s Elecsys pTau217 plasma test for use in patients who are already showing signs of cognitive impairment.
The test looks for a blood biomarker linked to amyloid buildup in the brain, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. It can help doctors determine whether Alzheimer’s-related brain changes are likely present or unlikely to be present.
The Alzheimer’s Association says this is the fourth Alzheimer’s blood-based biomarker test cleared by the FDA, and the second cleared within one week.
The test is not meant to diagnose Alzheimer’s by itself. Doctors would use the results along with a patient’s symptoms, medical history and other clinical testing.
Supporters say blood testing could make the diagnostic process faster and more accessible. In the past, confirming Alzheimer’s-related changes often required more specialized testing, including brain imaging or a spinal fluid test.
The Alzheimer’s Association says faster answers could help patients and families begin treatment, care planning and other support sooner.
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