Labcorp has launched nationwide access to the first FDA-cleared blood test for Alzheimer’s disease designed for use in primary care, expanding its Alzheimer’s testing portfolio across both primary and specialty care settings.
The Elecsys® pTau-181 test helps clinicians assess symptomatic patients age 55 and older by identifying those who are unlikely to have amyloid pathology, the abnormal protein buildup in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Patients who receive negative results can be evaluated for other potential causes of cognitive decline, while those with positive results may be referred for additional diagnostic testing.
Developed by Roche Diagnostics and cleared by the FDA in 2025, the test offers a less invasive alternative to traditional diagnostic approaches such as brain imaging or lumbar puncture.
“Primary care clinicians are often the first point of contact for patients with concerns related to cognitive symptoms, yet Alzheimer’s testing has historically required a visit to a specialist,” said Dr. Brian Caveney, chief medical and scientific officer at Labcorp. “By making this first-of-its-kind blood test available nationwide, Labcorp is giving primary care clinicians a powerful tool to help patients get answers sooner and guide next steps with confidence.”
By enabling earlier assessment in primary care, the test may help reduce unnecessary specialist referrals and support more timely evaluation of other causes of cognitive decline.
