Labcorp, a global leader of innovative and comprehensive laboratory services, announced the availability of the Lumipulse pTau-217/Beta Amyloid 42 Ratio, the first blood-based in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) test cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease through early detection of the amyloid plaques associated with the disease in appropriate patients. Developed by Fujirebio Diagnostics, Inc., the test is now available nationwide through Labcorp.

The test offers results that are comparable to existing methods that support a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease – cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing obtained through lumbar puncture and positron emission tomography (PET) scans – but from a simple blood draw, making it more affordable, more accessible and less invasive. Fujirebio reports that in clinical studies, the test demonstrated a positive predictive value of 92 per cent and a negative predictive value of 97 per cent.

"The path to an Alzheimer's diagnosis has long meant a diagnostic journey requiring years of invasive procedures and expensive imaging," said Dr. Brian Caveney, chief medical and scientific officer at Labcorp. "Clinicians need better ways to diagnose their patients more quickly, enrol them in clinical trials, or start therapies. By offering this FDA-cleared blood test nationwide, Labcorp is leading the way in delivering innovative solutions for Alzheimer's disease and other neurological conditions by helping patients, families and physicians get answers sooner." 

The launch of this test closely follows the release of a new clinical guideline from the Alzheimer's Association, which supports the use of blood-based biomarkers to help evaluate patients suspected of Alzheimer's disease in speciality care settings. The guideline highlights the growing clinical consensus around these tools and reinforces the importance of expanding access.