Tiny device could help GPs detect Alzheimer's in minutes
GPs could soon be able to screen their patients for Alzheimer's Disease using a handheld device the size of a credit card.
The first-of-a-kind finger-prick blood test, developed by engineers at Melbourne's Monash University, can detect the hallmark protein biomarkers of early Alzheimer's Disease within minutes.
The testing device could become a vital tool to help doctors diagnose patients before symptoms progress.
READ MORE: What is Oropouche virus? The emerging threat concerning officials
Monash University's Associate Professor Sudha Mokkapati has been working on the device for four years. Supplied: Monash University
There are around 420,000 Australians living with dementia, and that number is set to double by 2054.
Associate Professor Sudha Mokkapati, from Monash Materials Science and Engineering, helped lead the development of the testing device.
The device had the potential to remove the need for laboratory-based pathology tests, and make diagnoses faster and cheaper.
"Detecting very early disease in large populations could dramatically change the trajectory of this burdening disease for many patients, and shave millions off associated healthcare costs," Mokkapati said.
"We've completed testing that shows the technology is highly advanced by design and capable of detecting ultra-low levels of several disease biomarkers in blood.
READ MORE: This simple lifestyle change could prevent you dying from Alzheimer's
This illustration from the National Institute on Aging/National Institutes of Health depicts cells in an Alzheimer's affected brain. National Institute on Aging, NIH via AP
The university is now seeking funding to complete the next stage - clinical validation, which will help bring the device one step closer to reality.
Associate Professor Matthew Pase, at Monash's School of Psychological Sciences, said the device may facilitate earlier, more efficient diagnosis.
"Most patients with neurodegenerative disease are typically diagnosed at advanced stages. Sadly, treatments targeting late-onset disease provide limited therapeutic benefit," Pase said.
"Earlier screening could change the outlook for many patients diagnosed with cognitive impairment, increasing the chance of halting or slowing symptom development and the rapid progression of the disease."
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
