FINGER-PRICK TEST FOR ALZHEIMER'S

Global blood protein trial showing promise

- BY JEREMY ARMSTRONG

A SIMPLE finger-prick blood test could help diagnose Alzheimer's.

A trial involving 1000 volunteers worldwide is looking at three proteins in the blood associated with the condition. Scientists will then compare the test with the current “gold standard” brain scans.

If the test works, it would be far easier than current scans, lumbar punctures or spinal taps used to identify the condition.

The test would use a plasma separation card to speed up diagnosis using blood and digital biomarkers.