FDA clears Alzheimer's blood test developed at Washington University

The FDA has cleared a blood test developed from technology invented at Washington University Medicine to aid in diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease.

This test is intended for adults as young as 40 who present with signs or symptoms of cognitive impairment and may benefit from early diagnosis. Washington University Neurologist and Alzheimer's researcher Dr. Randy Bateman says, "The blood test actually has an accuracy of about over 90%, some cases 95% and above in being able to detect Alzheimer's Disease in the brain of people, patients that are being evaluated."

The test is called Precivity AD-2 -- and it offers a less invasive alternative to spinal taps and brain scans. It is meant to be used in conjunction with clinical assessment to aid health care professionals The test is not intended as a screening or stand-alone diagnostic tool. It is expected to be available later this year.