By Joe Besnard
On August 24, 2026, the FDA cleared a new blood test, Roche’s Elecsys pTau217, that helps doctors tell whether the amyloid plaques linked to Alzheimer’s are likely present in the brain.
The test is for adults 55 and older who are showing signs of memory or thinking problems. It measures a single protein in the blood, called pTau217, and helps doctors rule Alzheimer’s-related changes in or out and decide whether more testing is needed. It can be ordered by primary care doctors, not just specialists.
Why it matters
Until recently, checking for amyloid usually meant a PET scan or a spinal tap. A simple blood draw at your regular doctor’s office could make getting answers faster and easier, and getting checked early gives you more options and more time to plan.
A blood test alone doesn’t diagnose Alzheimer’s. It’s one piece of the picture your doctor puts together. If you’re noticing memory changes in yourself or someone you love, ask your doctor about testing. Our Resources page lists places in Tampa Bay that offer memory screenings.
This post is general information, not medical advice. Always talk with your own doctor or a qualified healthcare professional about diagnosis, screening and treatment.
