New blood test may help diagnose, show how far Alzheimer’s has progressed — Alzheimer’s Progession Diagnosis in Marbella

19/06/2025

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease has traditionally relied on brain imaging, cognitive tests, and expensive procedures like spinal fluid analysis. But now, scientists have developed a promising new blood test that could change everything—from faster diagnosis to tracking how far the disease has progressed.

This breakthrough test focuses on a protein fragment called MTBR-tau243, which is linked to the build-up of tau tangles in the brain—a key sign of Alzheimer’s disease. These tangles are more closely related to memory decline than other proteins like amyloid-beta.

Here, we talk about these findings, as well as our Alzheimer’s Progession Diagnosis in Marbella.

What Makes This Test Different?

Unlike other tests that only detect whether Alzheimer’s is present, this new blood test can also indicate the stage of the disease.

In a recent study, participants with Alzheimer’s at different stages (early symptoms, mild cognitive issues, or full dementia) were tested. Results showed:

MTBR-tau243 levels were clearly higher in those with more advanced symptoms.
In late-stage Alzheimer’s, levels were up to 200 times higher than in earlier stages.
The test showed 92% accuracy in matching blood results to tau tangle levels in the brain.

This makes the test especially valuable for guiding treatment options based on how far the disease has progressed.

Why Tau Matters More Than Amyloid

While amyloid plaques have long been associated with Alzheimer’s, research shows that tau tangles have a much stronger connection to actual memory loss and thinking problems. The new biomarker, MTBR-tau243, specifically tracks these tangles.

Key points:

Tau tangles grow significantly in later stages of Alzheimer’s.
MTBR-tau243 is a specific marker for these tau changes.
Blood levels of this protein offer a clear view of disease progression.

This makes MTBR-tau243 not just a tool for detection, but a way to track the disease over time, potentially improving how and when treatments are given.

The Advantages of a Blood Test

Older diagnostic tools like PET scans or spinal fluid tests are:

Expensive
Invasive
Not widely available

A blood test, on the other hand, is:

Simple
Cost-effective
Easier to repeat over time

This opens the door for earlier diagnosis, which is essential since most current treatments are more effective in the early stages of Alzheimer’s.

What’s Next?

While these findings are promising, more research is needed. The test must be validated in:

Larger populations
More diverse ethnic and age groups
People with other neurological conditions to ensure accuracy

Standard guidelines for how and when to use this test will also need to be established.

Alzheimer’s Progession Diagnosis in Marbella

At Helicopteros Sanitarios in Marbella, we understand that time is crucial when it comes to Alzheimer’s. Early and accurate diagnosis can improve quality of life, guide treatment, and help families prepare.

If you or a loved one is showing signs of memory loss, don’t wait. Our Alzheimer’s Progression Diagnosis service uses the latest science-backed tools to give you clarity and direction.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you in navigating Alzheimer’s with confidence and care.