Quest Launches New Blood Test for Early Alzheimer's Detection
uest's new p-tau217 blood test transforms early Alzheimer's detection with a simple blood draw. Available nationwide in April, launching a new era in accessible brain health screening.
Quest Diagnostics has added a p-tau217 blood biomarker test to their AD-Detect™ portfolio for Alzheimer's Disease assessment. This new test provides a less invasive, more accessible option for evaluating Alzheimer's risk.
Think about the difference: Instead of expensive brain scans or spinal taps, patients now need only a blood draw at their local Quest center. For the 7 million Americans with Alzheimer's – a number set to double by 2060 – this means faster answers and earlier intervention.
"Testing for Alzheimer's has changed rapidly in the last few years," notes Dr. Michael Racke, Medical Director of Neurology at Quest. He sees blood testing as a key part of future diagnosis, especially when combined with cognitive assessments.
Key Benefits of the New Test:
- Available at 2,000+ Quest locations nationwide
- Results aid early diagnosis before symptoms show
- Less expensive than traditional PET imaging
- No need for specialized facilities
- Quick, simple blood draw process
- Can be ordered by primary care doctors
The test joins Quest's AD-Detect™ portfolio, which includes other blood-based markers like p-tau181 and amyloid beta proteins. Primary care doctors can now screen patients earlier, potentially catching signs of Alzheimer's when intervention matters most.
For patients worried about memory issues, this new option removes major barriers to testing. No more waiting for specialist appointments or traveling to special facilities. Just a simple blood draw at their nearest Quest center.
The p-tau217 test launched April 26, 2024, marking another step toward making Alzheimer's a more manageable condition through early detection and treatment.
