The landscape of Alzheimer’s diagnosis is undergoing a revolution, offering new hope for early detection and intervention. At Rhoda Goldman Plaza, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements to provide the best possible care for our residents. We understand the challenges and complexities associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, and we believe that early detection and planning is key to providing the highest quality of life for our residents.
One of the most promising developments is the emergence of blood tests that can detect Alzheimer’s disease with remarkable accuracy, even before symptoms become pronounced. Recent studies have shown that these tests, particularly those measuring a protein called p-tau217, can achieve up to 90% accuracy in determining whether memory loss is due to Alzheimer’s. An example of such testing is the PrecivityAD2 test by C2N, which measures both p-tau217 and the ratio of Aβ42/40 to provide a comprehensive assessment of Alzheimer’s pathology.
What is p-tau217 & Why is it Important?
Phosphorylated tau 217 (p-tau217) is a specific form of tau protein that is a highly specific marker for Alzheimer’s disease. Well organized tau proteins in nerve cells (neurons) are essential to transport proteins and nutrients. In Alzheimer’s they become abnormal with extra phosphorus (P-tau217). These tangles inside the neurons, along with amyloid plaques between neurons, are considered the hallmarks of the disease. The presence of elevated p-tau217 in the blood indicates a higher likelihood of these changes occurring in the brain, allowing us to access information previously obtained by looking at spinal fluid. While p-tau217 in the blood is a major focus, researchers are also exploring other biomarkers like p-tau181, p-tau 231, neurofilament light chain (NfL), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) that could further enhance diagnostic accuracy.
The PrecivityAD2 Test: A Closer Look
The PrecivityAD2 test is a significant advancement in blood-based Alzheimer’s testing. It not only measures p-tau217 but also analyzes the ratio of other abnormal amyloid beta 42 to amyloid beta 40 (Aβ42/40). This dual-marker approach enhances the test’s accuracy in predicting the presence of amyloid plaques in the brain, which is crucial for a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. By combining these two key biomarkers, the PrecivityAD2 test provides a more comprehensive picture of an individual’s Alzheimer’s disease risk.
It is essential to understand that while these new blood tests are providing valuable information, they must be combined with a clinical history of cognitive decline (gradual changes in thinking skills, language, behavior and more). In addition, one must be sure any treatable medical conditions that can contribute to confusion have been diagnosed and treated.
Benefits of Early Detection of Alzheimer’s
Early identification of Alzheimer’s disease offers several advantages:
- Timely Intervention: Early detection allows us to tailor care plans, incorporating memory-enhancing activities, appropriate social engagement, and medication management from the earliest stages. We can also work with residents and families to explore participation in clinical trials for new treatments.
- Improved Care Planning: Families can work with our team to create a personalized care plan that anticipates future needs. Our team approach provides a unique balance of relative safety with retained autonomy. We want all residents to enjoy life as fully as possible, and if chronic illness becomes a heavy burden, we can facilitate conversations towards making , informed decisions about future care goals and exploring options within our assisted living and memory care programs.
- Reduced Anxiety: Receiving a diagnosis, while difficult, can provide a sense of clarity and allow families to focus on creating positive experiences and making the most of their time together. Our supportive community at Rhoda Goldman Plaza provides resources and support for both residents and their families.
- Access to New Treatments: The recent approval of drugs like Leqembi (lecanemab) that can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s makes early detection even more critical. These medications are most effective in the early stages of the disease, and blood tests can help identify eligible patients quickly and efficiently.
Current Accessibility and Considerations for Alzheimer’s Blood Tests
While these blood tests represent a significant advancement, there are important considerations:
- Regulatory Approval and Insurance Coverage: Many of these tests are not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not currently covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance plans. Patients may need to pay out-of-pocket, and costs can vary.
- Availability: Tests like the PrecivityAD2 are available in the U.S. but may not be widely accessible in all regions. It’s essential to consult with healthcare providers to determine availability and suitability.
The Changing Landscape of Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
The advent of blood tests for Alzheimer’s signifies a shift from symptom-based diagnosis to a more biologically driven approach. These tests offer a less invasive and more accessible alternative to traditional methods like PET scans or spinal taps. While these tests are not yet a definitive diagnostic tool on their own and need to be used in conjunction with a clinical evaluation by a physician, they represent a major step forward.
At Rhoda Goldman Plaza, we recognize the challenges and complexities related to Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, and we believe that early detection is essential for ensuring the highest quality of life for our residents.
Where to Get a p-tau217 Blood Test
Currently, only one commercially available blood test has been FDA-approved. A doctor’s order is required to get the test. It’s important to remember that these tests are relatively new, and widespread availability for routine clinical use is still evolving. We encourage families to discuss these tests, including the PrecivityAD2 test, with their physicians to determine if they are appropriate for their loved ones.
Here are some resources for learning more about p-tau217 testing:
- Labcorp: Labcorp is the first company to have received FDA approval for a p-tau217 test. The medical provider ordering this blood test must send you to a facility prepared to handle the specimen – blood must be processed and frozen before shipping out for analysis..
- Quest Diagnostics: A blood draw can be done at any of Quest’s patient service centers in the United States.
- Mayo Clinic Laboratories: A noninvasive blood test that detects the p-tau217 biomarker.
- Lucent Diagnostics: A CLIA-certified laboratory that runs the LucentAD p-Tau 217 test.
- Neurocode: A company that offers the ALZpath Dx: Plasma Phosphorylated Tau 217 (p-Tau 217) test.
- C2N: The company that developed the PrecivityAD2 blood test which measures p-tau217.
Looking to the Future of Blood Tests for Alzheimer’s
The development of blood tests for Alzheimer’s is a significant advancement that holds immense promise for early detection, intervention, and improved planning. At Rhoda Goldman Plaza, we are excited about these developments and are dedicated to providing our residents with access to the most advanced and compassionate care possible.
To learn more about Rhoda Goldman Plaza’s memory care program and our commitment to our residents, please contact us to schedule a tour.
