Amyloid Beta Protein Precursor Test- Why am I having this test?
If symptoms of dementia and confusion are present in you or in someone you care for, your health care provider will do a thorough examination to try to determine the cause. This may include a variety of cognitive tests to assess memory. Scanning tests of the brain may also be done to look for abnormalities.
Your health care provider may also order the amyloid beta protein precursor test. This test can be used to help diagnose Alzheimer disease (AD) and certain other types of dementia.
Symptoms of dementia may include:
- Memory loss.
- Behavioral changes.
- Decreased ability to perform daily life functions.
What is being tested?
This test measures the levels of the beta amyloid protein in the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid, CSF). Free beta amyloid proteins in the CSF have been shown to protect the brain. Levels of beta amyloid protein are decreased in the CSF of patients with AD.
What kind of sample is taken?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples are collected using a lumbar puncture procedure, which is also called a spinal tap procedure. This procedure is usually done in a hospital or clinic.
How are the results reported?
Your test results will be reported as values. Your health care provider will compare your results to normal ranges that were established after testing a large group of people (reference values). Reference values may vary among labs and hospitals. For this test, a common reference value of beta amyloid protein is:
- Greater than 450 units/L.
What do the results mean?
Decreased levels of beta amyloid proteins in the CSF may indicate:
- Alzheimer disease.
- Other forms of dementia.
Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.
Questions to ask your health care provider
Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:
- When will my results be ready?
- How will I get my results?
- What are my treatment options?
- What other tests do I need?
- What are my next steps?
Summary
- This test can be used to help diagnose Alzheimer disease (AD) and certain other types of dementia.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples are collected using a lumbar puncture procedure, and the sample is tested to measure the level of beta amyloid protein.
- Levels of beta amyloid protein are decreased in the CSF of persons with AD.
