Two blood tests for Alzheimer’s disease have been approved in the US, in an effort to simplify a diagnostic process that until now has relied mainly on neuropsychological tests and other expensive and invasive examinations, according to News24/7.
The tests, developed by Fujirebio Diagnostics and Roche Holding, detect biomarkers associated with the disease, mainly different forms of the tau protein, while Fujirebio’s test also detects beta-amyloid. These proteins are linked to the formation of the characteristic plaques in the brain and are a key indicator of the disease.
Their primary use is for patients who are already showing early signs, such as memory problems. However, these are not tests that can confirm a diagnosis on their own. Even a positive result requires further evaluation, such as an MRI scan, neuropsychological testing or other examinations, since factors such as infections or inflammation can affect biomarker levels.
The tests are not intended for healthy people without symptoms who want to find out whether they will develop the disease later in life.
Experts also stress that the tests are not designed for healthy, symptom-free people who want to know whether they will develop Alzheimer’s in the future. This is because the presence of biomarkers does not necessarily mean that someone will develop the disease, while at present there are no approved treatments to prevent it.
Nevertheless, public interest is growing, particularly among people with a family history of dementia. According to a 2025 survey by the Alzheimer’s Association, 91% of Americans would want a simple test to know whether they have the disease. Doctors, however, warn that using such tests as a general screening tool is not yet realistic and could lead to misinterpretation or anxiety without any clear therapeutic consequence.
Source: News24/7
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