18 Aug FDA APPROVES BLOOD TEST TO DIAGNOSE ALZHEIMER’S
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a blood test called Lumipulse to help diagnose Alzheimer’s Disease in some patients over 55. Lumipulse tests two proteins in the blood plasma, which detect if there are Amyloid plaques (common for those with Alzheimer’s ) in the brain.
Although some doctors may have given blood tests before FDA approval, the government agency’s endorsement could result in insurance coverage, and more will likely to be tested.
Spinal tests and PET scans have been used more commonly to determine if there are Amyloid plaques to determine if a patient has or is likely to get Alzheimer’s – especially if one is able to be able to get either Kisunla or Leqembi (drugs the FDA has approved to slow the progression of the disease). Giving blood is easier and less expensive than spinal fluid tests and PET scans, and would likely result in more patients being tested.
Since it would be more accessible, there will likely be usage by more diverse populations, resulting in earlier detection and more understanding on who is likely to have or get Alzheimer’s – although the test should probably only be taken by those with cognitive or memory loss symptoms.
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