Beyond Memory Loss: Spotting Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Signs That Aren’t Chalked Up to Forgetfulness
Memory loss isn’t always the first sign of early-onset Alzheimer’s; many patients first show executive-function, language, vision, or personality changes, which can delay diagnosis. Most cases before 65 aren’t genetic, though about 5% involve gene mutations; roughly 360,000 Americans are affected. Advances in biomarkers—amyloid and tau PET scans, spinal fluid tests, and increasingly blood tests like p-tau217—now allow diagnosis in living patients and could democratize access. Clinicians use detailed histories, MRI, and biomarker results to diagnose and discuss treatments, including monoclonal antibodies targeting amyloid and emerging tau therapies, moving toward biology-based classification and personalized, combination therapies. The LEADS study aids early-onset diagnosis and trial access, underscoring a shift to earlier, biology-driven care for younger patients.
