As of 2023, the World Health Organization reports that more than 55 million people worldwide were living with dementia- globally, it is the seventh leading cause of death and is one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older individuals [1]. Alzheimer disease (AD) is the predominant form of dementia and is the subject of intensive research efforts into identification/detection, prevention, and treatment. Biomarkers are an emerging target in the field of identification, as emerging research has shown strong support for the utility of biomarkers in this context, with early identification leading to improved prognosis for affected individuals.

In line with a growing evidence base that supports the clinical utility of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-based biomarkers for individuals with AD or mild cognitive impairment, Avalon laboratory policy now supports the measurement of amyloid beta peptides from CSF samples for this target population. The Alzheimer’s Association has previously reported on clinical indications for the appropriate use of lumbar puncture and cerebrospinal fluid testing for various biomarkers in the diagnosis of AD and deemed their use to be appropriate for individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) that is persistent, progressing, and unexplained, as well as for individuals with MCI with an onset at an early age (<65) [2]. The literature pool investigating CSF-based biomarkers continues to burgeon, with the most replicated and consistent results supporting the measurement of β-amyloid peptides, further supporting their readiness for clinical use [3, 4].

1. WHO. Dementia. 2023; Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dementia.
2. Shaw, L.M., et al., Appropriate use criteria for lumbar puncture and cerebrospinal fluid testing in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimers Dement, 2018. 14(11): p. 1505-1521.
3. Hosseini, A.A., et al., Clinical Utility of Cerebrospinal Fluid Abeta42 and Tau Measures in Diagnosing Mild Cognitive Impairment in Early Onset Dementia. J Alzheimers Dis, 2022. 87(2): p. 771-780.
4. Zhang, Y., et al., Amyloid beta-based therapy for Alzheimer’s disease: challenges, successes and future. Signal Transduct Target Ther, 2023. 8(1): p. 248.