04/28/2026
A blood test (p-tau217) can help estimate when Alzheimer's symptoms are likely to start in people already showing memory or cognitive changes, within a margin of 3–4 years.
The test is available right now, and some of our patients are choosing to take it and follow up with a specialist when the results suggest it. The point is to take action early, not wait until symptoms are advanced.
While not a stand-alone tool, this option is available for patients (typically 65+) being evaluated for memory concerns. If you or a family member has noticed memory changes, talk to one of our providers about this option.
A model developed by WashU Medicine researchers to estimate Alzheimer’s symptoms onset could speed development of preventive treatments.