Memory problems, concentration problems, confusion: When those affected feel the first symptoms of Alzheimer's, the progress of the disease can no longer be stopped. The disease usually develops over the course of ten to twenty years and remains unnoticed. During this transition period, the researchers were able to register changes in the brain. At the beginning of the disease, two proteins were deposited in the brain tissue. About five to ten years later there was a period during which the metabolism decreased significantly. Nerve cells then began to die. If there were a test for early detection of Alzheimer's, the progression of the disease could theoretically be stopped by certain medications. Theoretically, because many of these drugs are currently in the testing phase. Nevertheless, there is hope that effective medicines will soon be available. The sooner the patient is treated with it, the better.
Early detection of Alzheimer's disease: Researchers in Germany and the USA are working on a blood test
A new blood test gives hope that early diagnosis of Alzheimer's patients will soon be possible. German scientists have managed to stimulate the white blood cells of a test subject with reactive substances and due to thespecific changesconfirmed the diagnosis of Alzheimer's in the cells. As part of the project, the researchers managed to make a diagnosis in new patients. Now an American company will try to develop a biomarker based on the project results and methodology.
A diagnosis of patients with Alzheimer's is usually only possible based on severe symptoms. But if there is no scientific evidence, errors can always occur. About a quarter of patients with Alzheimer's were later found to be misdiagnosed. Although there are various more or less invasive tests, they are expensive and not suitable for widespread use. Even if researchers can detect dead nerve cells in those affected, the question still remains as to whether Alzheimer's is really the reason for this. Other age-related diseases could also lead to this. With a blood test, it would be clear within a few hours whether the patient really suffers from dementia.
