#United States #Alzheimer's Disease #Quest Diagnostics #Secaucus #AD-Detect

New Quest AD-Detect® Tests for Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis

Recent research has highlighted significant advancements in the diagnostic approach to Alzheimer's disease, particularly through two blood tests developed by Quest Diagnostics. Published in Neurology® Clinical Practice, these tests demonstrate high accuracy in identifying Alzheimer's disease pathology among symptomatic patients, positioning themselves as pivotal tools for effective diagnosis and patient care.

Conducted in collaboration with 1Florida ADRC at the University of Florida, this study suggests that the Quest AD-Detect tests can potentially confirm Alzheimer's disease without the necessity for follow-up diagnostic imaging techniques, such as PET scans or cerebrospinal fluid tests. According to Dr. Michael Racke, Senior Medical Director of Neurology at Quest, these tests can effectively bridge the gap in traditional diagnostics by offering scalable blood-based solutions.

Accuracy and Reliability of the Tests

The study's findings indicate that both blood tests achieve a commendable 91% sensitivity and specificity when assessed in a study population comprising 215 patients with either mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer's disease. Notably, 46% of these patients were confirmed as amyloid PET-positive, emphasizing the tests' alignment with existing Alzheimer's diagnostic guidelines.

One of these tests generates a likelihood score based on various circulating blood biomarkers, including amyloid beta (AB) 42/40, phosphorylated tau (p-tau) 217, and the ApoE4 proteotype, which reflects inherited high-risk alleles. A version of this test is scheduled for launch in the first quarter of 2026. Meanwhile, the other test evaluates AB 42/40 and p-tau217 but does not include ApoE4; this version has already been made available since April 2025.

Both tests carry an indeterminate result rate of only 10% for the one including all biomarkers, while the version excluding ApoE4 shows a slightly elevated rate of 15%. These low indeterminate rates are crucial as they suggest more consistent and clearer results for healthcare providers and patients, facilitating better clinical decision-making.

Broader Implications for Alzheimer’s Healthcare

With nearly 7 million Americans currently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, and projections indicating this number could double by 2060, the Quest AD-Detect tests offer a streamlined, cost-effective diagnostic option. This is particularly pertinent given the existing healthcare consensus that blood tests could significantly reduce the financial burden associated with more invasive diagnostic methods like lumbar punctures and costly imaging techniques.

Moreover, a Quest report reveals that 94% of physicians believe blood tests would enhance cost-effectiveness in Alzheimer's detection, particularly when dealing with large population segments. Importantly, the tests not only conform to performance metrics akin to cerebrospinal fluid testing but also provide evidence of predictive values that enable physicians to act more confidently in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusion

As Quest Diagnostics continues its mission to innovate and enhance diagnostic capabilities, the AD-Detect tests stand out as instrumental in tackling the challenges associated with Alzheimer's disease management. This initiative represents a significant leap forward in diagnostics, marrying technological advancements with the pressing need for effective, accessible, and affordable healthcare solutions. For more insights into Quest's pioneering work in brain disease diagnostics, visit www.QuestForTheCure.com.