Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
A recent study found that a blood test measuring levels of the protein p-tau217 may estimate when a person will begin to show symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia and a brain disorder that impairs memory and thinking skills.
Researchers analyzed data from 603 individuals who underwent multiple p-tau217 blood tests over time. Using this data, they created a "clock" model to identify those likely to develop Alzheimer’s symptoms and estimate the age at symptom onset.
The model showed that the period between the first elevated p-tau217 level and symptom onset shortens with age. For example, a person with high p-tau217 at age 60 might develop symptoms about 20 years later, while someone with the same levels at age 80 might see symptoms in roughly 11 years.
These findings suggest a single blood test may estimate how long until Alzheimer’s symptoms appear, potentially helping patients and doctors plan for prevention or slowing of symptoms. However, additional research is needed to improve accuracy and validate use in clinical settings, according to Dr. Suzanne Schindler at Washington University in St. Louis.