A simple blood test that could revolutionise Dementia diagnosis has started trials in 28 clinics around the UK. Across the UK over 3,000 patients are being asked to take part in a new study where samples of blood are taken and then tested for a series of proteins called biomarkers which in previous research have been linked to Dementia.
If successful this study will help verify a diagnostic test suitable for routine tests that can detect problems with memory loss and mental processing in the early stages of Dementia, and hopefully will be up and running within 5 yrs.
Shamefully at the moment one third of patients do not get a diagnosis simply because the NHS don’t have enough brain scanners, known as PET, (positron emission tomography) nor do they have enough qualified staff to take the required sample of fluid from the spine.
Most people along with those conducting the trial are hoping that taking part will lead to faster diagnosis and improved access to treatment. This blood marker challenge is about improving the diagnosis pathway which commented on by Professor Vanessa Raymont a senior clinical researcher at the University of Oxford if we do not get early diagnosis in the near future it will have disastrous consequences for people unable to get the essential early diagnosis.
Fortunately there are new medications coming on line which are especially helpful to those patients who are lucky enough to receive an early diagnosis.
Here at GGAT we regularly say that early diagnosis is now paramount, so if you have any comments on this post please get in touch we will be so pleased to hear your comments.
