The DISCERN test is a diagnostic tool designed to aid in the identification of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and to help distinguish it from other forms of dementia. This test offers insights that can help healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding patient care. The test is a minimally invasive option for evaluating biological markers associated with neurological conditions.
What the Discern Test Measures
The DISCERN test primarily measures three specific biomarkers unique to Alzheimer’s disease. These biomarkers are analyzed from a small skin sample, providing insights into the biological underpinnings of the disease. The test evaluates factors related to the formation of synaptic connections in the brain. Synaptic loss is recognized as an indicator of cognitive decline, as synapses are the junctions between nerve cells allowing for communication and are involved in cognitive function and memory.
Beyond synaptic health, the DISCERN test also assesses regulators of amyloid plaque and tau formation. Amyloid plaques and tau tangles are hallmark pathological features observed in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. By examining these specific biomarkers, the test aims to provide a high degree of certainty in identifying the presence or absence of Alzheimer’s disease in individuals experiencing dementia symptoms. The test is designed to differentiate Alzheimer’s from other types of dementia, offering a more precise diagnostic pathway.
How the Test is Conducted
The DISCERN test involves a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure. A small skin sample is obtained by a healthcare provider, typically in an outpatient setting.
After the skin sample is collected, it is shipped to a specialized laboratory for analysis. The laboratory incubates and evaluates the sample over a period that can range from approximately six to twelve weeks. Once the analysis is complete, the laboratory notifies the healthcare provider, who then communicates the results to the patient during a follow-up consultation.
Understanding Your Results
The results of the DISCERN test are designed to provide a definitive diagnosis regarding the presence or absence of Alzheimer’s disease. The test offers a high degree of certainty, reported to be greater than 95% in identifying Alzheimer’s disease. This level of accuracy is intended to give physicians a reliable answer when evaluating patients with dementia symptoms.
A positive result indicates the presence of specific biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that AD is the underlying cause of cognitive decline. Conversely, a negative result helps clinicians focus on other potential causes of dementia, some of which may be treatable or even reversible if identified early. It is important to discuss the test results with a qualified healthcare provider, who will interpret them within the context of an individual’s overall health, medical history, and other diagnostic findings. This comprehensive approach ensures that the diagnosis leads to appropriate care and treatment planning.
Important Considerations
The DISCERN test is particularly relevant for individuals experiencing memory loss, confusion, or other symptoms of cognitive decline, helping to determine if Alzheimer’s disease is the cause. This test is the only autopsy-validated skin test that accurately identifies Alzheimer’s disease. It has received Breakthrough Designation by the FDA and is reimbursed for individuals covered by Medicare Fee-for-Service.
While the test offers high accuracy in diagnosis, it is just one component in the comprehensive evaluation of dementia. Factors such as a patient’s medical history, current symptoms, other laboratory tests, and brain imaging studies also play a role in a complete diagnostic assessment. The insights provided by the DISCERN test can guide healthcare providers in tailoring appropriate treatment plans and enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their future care.