Blood test measuring p-tau217 may forecast Alzheimer’s risk in asymptomatic seniors
Researchers found that very high levels of the blood marker p-tau217 were linked to a 38% chance of cognitive impairment within five years and 78% within ten years among older adults without symptoms.
A study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in London reported that a blood test for the protein p-tau217 can identify older adults who are likely to develop Alzheimer’s-related cognitive impairment over the next five to ten years. The analysis of 2,684 participants who were cognitively normal at enrollment showed that those with the highest p-tau217 concentrations faced a 38% risk of impairment within five years, rising to 78% by a decade later, while individuals with low levels had a correspondingly low risk.
The findings, published in JAMA, suggest the test could help select high-risk participants for clinical trials of preventive therapies, though researchers caution that it is not yet ready for routine screening of healthy people. > "Wait and get tested when you can potentially do something about it," said Dr. Reisa Sperling of the Mass General Brigham Neuroscience Institute, the study’s senior author. She added that current advice would remain focused on diet, sleep, exercise and mental engagement.
Experts not involved in the work noted limitations, including the relatively small number of participants followed for a full ten-year period and the potential influence of other health conditions that can cause dementia. > "The blood tests are not yet precise enough to guide individualized prognosis," wrote Drs. Suzanne Schindler and David Wolk in a JAMA commentary.
While interest from the public is growing, clinicians advise against seeking the test until effective preventive treatments become available.