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Innovative Alzheimer's disease diagnostic tool unveiled

Mayo Clinic Laboratories has marked a significant advancement in the fight against Alzheimer's disease with the introduction of an innovative diagnostic test. This noninvasive blood test accurately detects the p-Tau217 biomarker, indicative of amyloid beta accumulation in the brain. This test is set to transform the approach to Alzheimer's disease management, offering a convenient and less invasive alternative to traditional diagnostic methods.

Alzheimer’s disease impacts millions of people worldwide and is on the rise, posing a growing challenge for healthcare systems and patients' families. The ability to diagnose the disease early and accurately is crucial to managing its progression and improving patient outcomes. The cutting-edge test from Mayo Clinic Laboratories offers healthcare providers a powerful tool in the early, accurate detection and treatment of this debilitating condition.

"Our latest diagnostic innovation represents a leap forward in precision medicine for Alzheimer's disease," said Alicia Algeciras-Schimnich, Ph.D., professor of laboratory medicine and pathology at Mayo Clinic. "By providing a more accurate diagnostic tool that aligns closely with PET scan results, we can offer patients and their families hope and clarity in their treatment journey."

The new blood test is based on the most current methodology, including automated immunoassay processes and state-of-the-art instrumentation, to ensure clinical validity and consistency; especially important for detecting the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. The test is particularly suited for symptomatic individuals age 50 and above who present with mild cognitive impairment or early signs of dementia. As Alzheimer's disease treatment evolves, Mayo Clinic Laboratories continues to lead the way in developing diagnostic tools that respond to the growing need for early and precise detection.

For more information, listen to this test-specific episode of the “Answers From the Lab” podcast with Dr. Algeciras-Schimnich.

Luci Gens

Luci Gens is a marketing manager at Mayo Clinic Laboratories. She joined Mayo Clinic in 2022 and has over ten years of experience in hospital-based marketing and communications.