Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that causes memory loss, thinking problems, and changes in daily function. A proactive plan starts by ruling out reversible causes of memory issues, then using Alzheimer’s-specific biomarkers if concern remains. Begin with basic blood tests (thyroid, vitamin B12, metabolic panel, complete blood count, A1c). If problems persist, add blood-based biomarkers that reflect Alzheimer’s biology—such as the amyloid beta (Aβ42/40) ratio and phosphorylated tau (p-tau)—often alongside neurofilament light (NfL) to gauge nerve-cell injury. When results are unclear—or when higher certainty is needed—your clinician may confirm with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers or imaging.
Testing can clarify whether findings fit Alzheimer’s biology, rule out common medical mimics, and establish a baseline for monitoring. Testing cannot diagnose on its own or replace a clinician’s exam, cognitive testing, or guideline imaging.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Cognitive changes: short-term memory loss, repeating questions, word-finding trouble, getting lost.

  • Daily function: problems managing bills, medications, shopping, or cooking.

  • Behavior/mood: anxiety, apathy, depression, irritability, sleep changes.

  • Medical clues to reversible causes: low thyroid, low vitamin B12, uncontrolled diabetes, medication effects, alcohol use.

  • When to seek urgent care: stroke-like symptoms (face droop, arm weakness, slurred speech), severe confusion after head injury, or rapid decline.
    All symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Triage and rule-out: identify or exclude reversible medical causes.

  • Risk stratification: show patterns consistent with Alzheimer’s biology using blood biomarkers.

  • Monitoring: set baselines and track trends over time with cognitive assessments.

What testing cannot do

  • Replace a full clinical evaluation or guideline imaging.

  • Serve as population screening for people without symptoms.

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone): screens for hypothyroidism; low thyroid can mimic memory issues. Caveat:illness and some drugs affect levels.

  • Vitamin B12 (± methylmalonic acid): detects deficiency tied to cognition. Caveat: borderline results may need confirmatory markers.

  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel & CBC: checks electrolytes, kidney/liver function, glucose, and anemia—common medical mimics. Caveat: abnormalities suggest medical issues, not Alzheimer’s itself.

  • Hemoglobin A1c: shows long-term glucose control; poor control can worsen thinking. Caveat: interpret with overall health.

  • Aβ42/40 ratio (blood): lower ratios suggest amyloid changes seen in Alzheimer’s biology. Caveat: platform differences; not diagnostic alone.

  • Phosphorylated tau (p-tau181 or p-tau217, blood): reflects tau pathology typical of Alzheimer’s. Caveat: use with amyloid measures and clinical context.

  • Neurofilament light (NfL, blood): marker of neuroaxonal injury across many conditions. Caveat: not specific to Alzheimer’s.

  • CSF biomarkers (Aβ42/40, total tau, p-tau): higher-confidence confirmation when indicated. Caveat: requires lumbar puncture and specialist review.

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Start smart: order basic lab set (TSH, B12, CMP, CBC, A1c) with focused history and cognitive screening.

  2. Add Alzheimer’s biomarkers: if concern remains, use a blood biomarker panel (Aβ42/40 + p-tau ± NfL).

  3. Secure results: view results in your online account; most blood tests return within days.

  4. Follow up: review results with your clinician; consider confirmatory CSF biomarkers or imaging if needed.

  5. Monitor over time: repeat selected labs/biomarkers and cognitive checks to track trends.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • Normal basic labs with ongoing symptoms may support moving to Alzheimer’s biomarkers.

  • Alzheimer’s-pattern blood biomarkers (low Aβ42/40 and elevated p-tau) increase the likelihood of Alzheimer’s biology but do not equal a diagnosis.

  • Borderline or mixed patterns may lead to repeat testing, CSF biomarkers, or imaging.

  • Emphasize trends over single values; always interpret with a qualified professional.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • First step (most adults with memory concerns): Basic rule-out panel (TSH, B12, CMP, CBC, A1c).

  • If concern persists: Choose an Alzheimer’s blood biomarker panel (Aβ42/40 + p-tau ± NfL) over single tests for stronger interpretation.

  • If results remain unclear or risk is high: Discuss confirmatory CSF biomarkers with your clinician.

  • After a negative work-up but ongoing concern: Revisit history, medications, sleep, mood, and consider repeat or alternative testing as directed.

FAQs

Is there a blood test that diagnoses Alzheimer’s?
Blood tests can reflect Alzheimer’s biology, but they do not diagnose on their own.

Should I get biomarkers if I’m only a little forgetful?
Start with basic labs to rule out common causes; add Alzheimer’s biomarkers if concerns persist.

Do I need APOE genetic testing?
APOE shows risk, not diagnosis; discuss pros and cons with your clinician.

When is brain imaging needed?
Imaging is considered when symptoms progress, results are unclear, or to check for other causes.

How often should I repeat testing?
Timing varies; many people repeat selected labs or biomarkers to track trends with their clinician.

Can thyroid or B12 problems look like Alzheimer’s?
Yes—both can affect memory and thinking, which is why rule-out labs come first.

Internal Links & Cross-References

  • Cognitive & Memory Tests Hub

  • Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

  • Depression Screening

  • Parkinson’s Disease

  • Vitamin Deficiencies

  • Key Lab Tests: TSH • Vitamin B12 • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel • CBC • Hemoglobin A1c • Alzheimer’s Blood Biomarker Panel (Aβ42/40, p-tau) • Neurofilament Light

References

  1. National Institute on Aging & Alzheimer’s Association. 2018 Research Framework: Toward a Biological Definition of Alzheimer’s Disease.

  2. Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures.

  3. Appropriate Use Recommendations for Blood Biomarkers in Alzheimer’s Disease. Consensus statements.

  4. American Academy of Neurology. Practice Guideline Update on Mild Cognitive Impairment—Evaluation and Management.

  5. National Institute on Aging. Assessing Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Primary Care—General Principles.

  6. Appropriate Use Criteria for Amyloid and Tau PET in Alzheimer’s Disease. Joint society recommendations.

  7. Consensus Guidance on CSF Biomarkers for Alzheimer’s Disease—Analytical and Clinical Considerations.

  8. ISTAART/AA Working Groups—Best Practices for Blood-Based Biomarker Testing and Reporting.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Alzheimer’s-related test menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Start with rule-out labs (TSH, B12, CMP, CBC, A1c), then add an Alzheimer’s blood biomarker panel (Aβ42/40 + p-tau ± NfL) .

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The Cardio IQ™ ApoE Genotype Test analyzes apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene variants linked to cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular risk. Results help assess risk for heart disease, hyperlipidemia, and Alzheimer’s disease. This genetic test guides personalized prevention and treatment strategies, including diet, lifestyle, and lipid-lowering therapies, supporting long-term cardiovascular and brain health.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: ApoE Cardiac Risk Test, ApoE Cardiovascular Disease Test, Apolipoprotein E Test, Apo E Test, ApoE Protein Test

The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures CRP levels in blood to detect inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP may indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors use this test to assess acute illness, monitor treatment response, and evaluate risk for heart disease. The CRP test provides key insight into inflammation, immune health, and overall wellness.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CRP Test, Inflammation Test

The Carbon Dioxide Test measures CO2 levels in the blood to help assess acid-base balance and metabolic function. Abnormal results may reflect respiratory issues, kidney disorders, or metabolic imbalances such as acidosis or alkalosis. This test is often included in electrolyte panels to provide insights into overall health, fluid balance, and how the body maintains proper pH regulation through the respiratory and renal systems.

Blood
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Also Known As: CO2 Test

The Chloride Test measures chloride, an essential electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, acid-base status, and nerve and muscle function. Abnormal chloride levels may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, or adrenal disorders. By assessing electrolyte balance, this test provides insight into hydration, metabolic function, and overall health of the renal and endocrine systems.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Chloride Serum Test

The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test

The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 

The Electrolyte Panel Test measures sodium, potassium, chloride, and carbon dioxide in blood to evaluate fluid balance, kidney function, and acid-base status. Abnormal results may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or respiratory issues. Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms such as weakness, confusion, or irregular heartbeat. Results provide essential insight into electrolyte balance, hydration, and overall metabolic and organ health.

Blood
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Also Known As: Lytes Panel, Anion Gap Panel, Electrolyte Test, Lytes Test, Anion Gap Test

The F2-Isoprostane/Creatinine Ratio Test evaluates urinary F2-isoprostanes adjusted for creatinine to assess oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Abnormal findings may reflect risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or neurological disorders. This test provides insight into systemic oxidative damage, metabolic balance, and health conditions influenced by free radical activity.

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The Heavy Metals 24-Hour Urine Test Panel with Cadmium measures excretion of toxic metals including lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium. Using a 24-hour urine collection, it helps assess acute or chronic exposure from environmental, dietary, or occupational sources. Elevated levels may be linked to kidney damage, neurological changes, or cardiovascular risk. Results support evaluation of toxic metal burden and exposure history.

Urine
Urine Collection

The Heavy Metals Random Urine Test Panel with Cadmium measures urinary levels of toxic metals including cadmium, lead, mercury, and arsenic to assess recent exposure. Elevated concentrations can result from occupational contact, contaminated water, diet, or environmental sources. This panel aids in detecting heavy metal toxicity, supporting evaluation of kidney stress, neurological health, and systemic metabolic effects.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: Random Urine Heavy Metals Test with Cadmium

The Heavy Metals 24 Hour Urine Test Panel measures urinary excretion of arsenic, lead, and mercury to assess cumulative exposure. Collecting urine over a full day improves detection of toxic metal burden compared to random sampling. Elevated levels may reflect environmental contact, workplace exposure, or dietary intake, supporting evaluation of kidney function, neurological effects, and systemic health risks related to heavy metal toxicity.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: 24 Hour Urine Heavy Metals Test

The Heavy Metals Blood Test Panel screens for toxic exposure to arsenic, lead, and mercury, which can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and other organs. Doctors order this test for patients with suspected poisoning, occupational exposure, or unexplained symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, or cognitive issues. Results help identify harmful metal levels, confirm diagnosis, and guide treatment to prevent long-term health complications.

Also Known As: Toxic Metals Test, Heavy Metals Blood Test

Urine
Urine Collection

The Potassium Test measures potassium levels in blood to evaluate electrolyte balance, kidney function, and overall metabolic health. Abnormal results may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or complications from certain medications. Doctors order this test for patients with weakness, irregular heartbeat, or high blood pressure. Results help diagnose hyperkalemia or hypokalemia and guide treatment to restore proper heart and muscle function.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: K Test

The RPR (Monitor) with Reflex to Titer Test screens for syphilis by detecting antibodies to Treponema pallidum. If positive, a reflex titer determines antibody concentration to assess disease activity and treatment response. Doctors order this test to diagnose syphilis, monitor therapy, or check reinfection. Results provide essential information for managing active infection, confirming treatment success, and guiding follow-up care.

Also Known As: Syphilis RPR Test, Rapid Plasma Reagin Test

Most Popular

The Sed Rate Test, also called the ESR Test, measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample of blood. A faster rate may signal inflammation caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, arthritis, or other chronic conditions. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained fever, joint pain, or muscle aches, and to monitor inflammatory disorders such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. The Sed Rate Test provides important insight into overall inflammatory activity.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Test, ESR Test, Sedimentation Rate Test, Westergren Sedimentation Rate Test

The Sedimentation Rate Blood Test, also called the Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Test, measures how quickly red blood cells settle in a sample. A faster rate can signal inflammation linked to arthritis, autoimmune disease, or infection. Doctors order this test when patients have symptoms like joint pain, fever, or fatigue. While not diagnostic alone, results provide valuable insight into inflammatory activity and help guide further evaluation and treatment.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: Sed Rate Test

The Sodium Test measures sodium levels in the blood, an electrolyte essential for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle activity. Abnormal sodium may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, adrenal disorders, or heart failure. Doctors use this test to investigate symptoms like confusion, weakness, or swelling and to monitor patients with chronic illnesses, diuretic use, or intravenous therapy, ensuring proper electrolyte and metabolic health.

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Also Known As: Na Test, Sodium Serum Test

Most Popular

The T4 Total Test measures total thyroxine (T4) in blood, a combination of both bound and unbound (free) T4, to assess thyroid function. Abnormal levels may indicate hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, or pituitary disorders. Doctors use this test to evaluate symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, or irregular heart rate and to monitor thyroid replacement or antithyroid therapy. The T4 Total Test provides key insight into metabolic, hormonal, and endocrine health.

Also Known As: Total T4 Test, Total Thyroxine Test, T4 Test, Bound and Unbound T4 Test

Most Popular

The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test measures TSH levels in blood to assess thyroid function and diagnose hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. It evaluates how the thyroid controls metabolism, energy, weight, and heart rate. Doctors use the TSH test to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, hair loss, or mood changes. Frequently included in routine health exams, it is also key for monitoring thyroid disease treatment and overall endocrine balance.

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Also Known As: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test

The Vitamin B12 Micronutrient Test measures blood levels of vitamin B12, essential for red blood cell production, nerve health, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause anemia, fatigue, neurological issues, and cognitive changes. This test helps identify dietary deficiencies, absorption problems, or related health conditions, supporting diagnosis and ongoing management of overall wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
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Blood Draw
Also Known As: B12 Test, Cobalamin Test

Most Popular

The Vitamin B12 Test measures cobalamin levels in blood to evaluate nutritional health, red blood cell production, and nervous system function. Low B12 can cause anemia, fatigue, weakness, memory problems, and nerve damage, while high levels may indicate liver or kidney disease. Doctors use this test to detect B12 deficiency, monitor treatment, and assess malabsorption conditions like pernicious anemia, Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: B12 Test, Cobalamin Test

Blood, Other
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Blood, Other
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Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

One in nine people ages 65 and older and live in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease. This is more than 11% of the population, and the number is only growing.

Even though the prevalence of the disease and the population of elderly individuals is increasing, there still isn’t a cure for Alzheimer’s. Recent research studies are showing promise, but nothing is proven.

Therefore, anyone who thinks that they or a loved one may have the condition needs to get Alzheimer’s blood tests. These can help patients and their providers detect Alzheimer’s early, and this early diagnosis can slow the progression of the disease.

Keep reading if you're interested in learning more about how these blood tests can help Alzheimer's patients.

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder. Over time, the cells of the brain die, and the brain shrinks in size. 

This loss of brain matter leads to a cognitive decline, meaning that patients may experience a loss of thinking, behavioral, and social skills.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, a disease marked by a continuous decline in thinking ability.

What Are the Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease?

The most notable risk factor is a person's age. As you get older, you're more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.

With this information, it's important to distinguish the fact that Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. The degradation that comes with Alzheimer's disease is not the same as the degradation that comes with the aging process.

Another risk factor is genetics. If an immediate family member has the disease, it's more likely that you'll have it as well. 

Individuals that carry the Alzheimer's gene are likely to carry the ApoE genotype as well. However, having the gene for the disease does not necessarily mean that you're going to develop the condition.

Another risk factor for Alzheimer's disease is pre-existing Down syndrome. Although the scientific community doesn't understand the link between the two conditions, they tend to agree it has to do with the extra chromosome copy found in individuals with Down syndrome.

Some scientists believe that the link between Down syndrome and Alzheimer's exists because of an early susceptibility. Patients with Down syndrome are likely to begin developing signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's 10 to 20 years before those without the pre-existing condition. So, some researchers think that this early susceptibility gives the body more time to develop the condition.

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

No one knows the exact causes of Alzheimer's disease. People have speculated over the years but haven't settled on a finite answer.

However, researchers believe that the development of the disease has to do with a regulation failure in the brain. More specifically, scientists believe that the proteins in the brain may not be working properly, which causes the cells to fail and triggers a series of toxic events.

Over time, this kills neurons and causes brain damage, leading to worsening signs and symptoms.

Scientists have also stated that they believe that the condition develops as a result of environmental and genetic influences. People with genetic ties to the condition have been able to conquer the gene; however, you shouldn't rely on lifestyle changes to ensure that you'll never develop the condition.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?

The number one symptom of Alzheimer's disease is memory loss. You may start noticing that you or your loved one can't recollect everyday information.

They may not know family members' names or similar information.

Here are a few other signs of Alzheimer's disease that you may notice in a family member or friend who is developing the disease:

  • Repeating statements and/or questions.
  • Forgetting conversations, events, appointments, etc.
  • Getting lost in places that they've been before.
  • Misplacing items that they own.
  • Having trouble identifying everyday objects.
  • Making wrong decisions that are uncharacteristic for the individual.
  • Changing personality traits quickly.

If you are displaying these symptoms, you should see a doctor. Even if it's not Alzheimer's, there could be another issue that you need to address. You shouldn't wait until it's too late.

What Are the Lab Tests for Alzheimer’s Disease?

To detect Alzheimer’s disease, physicians have to look for several different kinds of biomarkers. Here are some of the most common lab tests that physicians use to test for Alzheimer's disease:

  • C-reactive protein - a general test to look at inflammation levels in the body.
  • Cardio IQ ApoE genotype - a test to determine if you have the Alzheimer's gene or not.
  • Complete blood count - evaluates the levels and presence of different types of blood cells.
  • Comprehensive metabolic panel - a test that provides a broad look at your health as it evaluates liver and kidney function and various nutrient levels.
  • Sedimentation rate - a general test to look at the rate of inflammation in the body.
  • Total T4 - a test that aids in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, which could be an alternative diagnosis for mental changes in a patient.
  • Thyroid-stimulating hormone - a test that can help in the diagnosis of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
  • Vitamin B12 - looks for the levels of B12 in the bloodstream to make sure that blood and DNA production is normal.

Together, all of these lab tests and results can help your physician determine whether or not you have Alzheimer's disease. At the same time, it can help them figure out if you're presenting other illnesses. These conditions could be contributing to extraneous symptoms or exacerbating existing symptoms.

Take control of your health today with Ulta Lab Tests.