Quest Diagnostics Launches Innovative Blood Test for Alzheimer's Detection: Lumipulse® G pTau 217/β-Amyloid
- Quest Diagnostics will launch the Lumipulse® G pTau 217/β-Amyloid 1-42 blood test for Alzheimer’s this summer.
- The test integrates into Quest's AD-Detect™ portfolio, enhancing less invasive Alzheimer’s diagnostics for patients aged 50 and older.
- Quest aims to improve early diagnosis and treatment outcomes for Alzheimer’s through innovative testing solutions and research initiatives.
Quest Diagnostics Unveils Groundbreaking Blood Test for Alzheimer's Disease
Quest Diagnostics, a leader in diagnostic information services, is set to enhance its Alzheimer’s diagnostic offerings with the introduction of the Lumipulse® G pTau 217/β-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) test this summer. This innovative blood-based test, developed by Fujirebio, becomes the first of its kind to receive clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for identifying amyloid pathology related to Alzheimer’s disease. Targeting adults aged 50 and older who show symptoms of cognitive decline, this test is poised to significantly improve the diagnostic landscape for Alzheimer’s.
The Lumipulse® test will be integrated into Quest's existing AD-Detect™ portfolio, which already includes various laboratory-developed blood tests aimed at assessing Alzheimer’s disease. Kathleen Valentine, Vice President and General Manager of Neurology at Quest, highlights the test's importance in providing a less invasive option for patients, moving away from traditional methods that often involve complex procedures. In a clinical study involving 499 patients, the test demonstrated strong predictive values, boasting a positive predictive value (PPV) of 92% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 97%. However, the study also noted that 20% of participants remained uncertain regarding their amyloid pathology, suggesting that further testing may be necessary for some individuals.
Quest is committed to leveraging its extensive network of patient service centers to facilitate accessibility to this new test, enabling at-risk individuals to receive timely diagnostic insights. The company aims to underscore its commitment to advancing brain health diagnostics by showcasing the Lumipulse® test alongside its broader range of Alzheimer’s and neurological testing innovations at the upcoming Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) in Toronto, scheduled for July 27-31. Dr. Michael Racke, Medical Director of Neurology at Quest, emphasizes the critical nature of early diagnosis for effective intervention in Alzheimer’s, reiterating the company’s dedication to improving outcomes for those affected by this challenging condition.
In addition to the new test, Quest Diagnostics continues to explore advancements in the field of neurology. As the demand for innovative diagnostic solutions grows, the company remains at the forefront, focusing on research and development that addresses the pressing needs of patients with neurological disorders. By expanding their suite of testing options, Quest aims to provide healthcare providers with the tools necessary for better patient management and treatment decisions.
With its unwavering commitment to enhancing diagnostic capabilities, Quest Diagnostics is setting a new standard in Alzheimer’s disease assessment. As the company prepares to launch the Lumipulse® test and showcase its innovations at the AAIC, it underscores the importance of early detection and intervention, which are critical in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.