The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially approved an Alzheimer’s blood test that could change the way we approach diagnosis of the most common form of dementia. The test, called Lumipulse, detects amyloid plaques—abnormal protein clumps in the brain that are linked to Alzheimer’s disease. These plaques disrupt brain function and are considered a key marker in the disease process. The FDA’s announcement marks a big step forward in making diagnosis more accessible and less invasive.

“Having a blood test just makes it so much easier in being able to make a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease,” said Charles Bernick, M.D., a neurologist at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. But it’s important to note: the test is only approved for use in older adults who are already experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s. It is not intended as a general screening tool. As this overview of diagnosis methods from the National Institute on Aging explains, it should be used alongside other clinical evaluations or diagnostic tests.

Doctors believe the Alzheimer’s blood test could lead to earlier diagnosis, allowing patients and families to begin treatment and care planning sooner. It’s not predictive—meaning it won’t tell you if you’ll get the disease someday—but for those already experiencing symptoms, it offers a faster, simpler, and more affordable path to diagnosis. Imagine the potential: catching the disease early enough to slow its progression and improve quality of life.

More on the differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s and what this means for future care can help you stay informed as tools like this become more widely used.

Stay well and stay informed!