Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease has always been a challenge, but now, proteins in the blood could offer a breakthrough in clarity. In the past, the only way to confirm a diagnosis was through an autopsy. However, advancements in science have allowed researchers to detect the disease in living individuals. By analyzing key proteins in spinal taps and using brain scans to identify characteristic plaques and tangles, doctors can now diagnose Alzheimer’s more accurately. Despite these advancements, spinal taps and brain scans can be costly and uncomfortable. A simple blood test could make diagnosis even more accessible. This is crucial because while there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, early detection can provide more time for discussing treatment options, such as new drugs that target amyloid, a protein that accumulates in the brain of Alzheimer’s patients. These drugs may slow down the progression of the disease, although they do come with potential side effects. According to neuropathologist Eliezer Masliah from the National Institute on Aging, this is a groundbreaking moment that could revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of the millions of people affected by Alzheimer’s worldwide.
2024-08-02 12:00:00
Source from www.sciencenews.org