A new ALS blood test can identify the disease from a single blood draw with 97 per cent accuracy, researchers say.
The test can also rule out people who do not have ALS, potentially ending long diagnostic delays.
ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a paralysing disease caused by the death of motor neurones.
Early diagnosis is hard, with many waiting over a year and up to 68 per cent misdiagnosed.
Dr Rachael Dunlop, first author of the research, said: “For ALS, which typically results in loss of life within 2-5 years from the appearance of symptoms, a delay of one year in receiving a diagnosis is simply unacceptable.
“This new test means that patients can initiate therapy early in the disease.”
The test was developed by scientists at the not-for-profit Brain Chemistry Labs in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, based on 788 blood samples: 393 from ALS patients and 395 from age- and gender-matched healthy controls.
It works by analysing microRNA, short genetic sequences that help regulate protein production in the body.
The test is equally accurate for sporadic and familial ALS.
Dr Paul Alan Cox, executive director and co-founder of the Brain Chemistry Labs, said: “The ALS patient population is deeply underserved. That’s why as a not-for-profit organisation we have doggedly pursued development of this new diagnostic test.”
Dr Sandra Banack, who presented the results at the International Symposium on ALS/MND in San Diego last week alongside Dr Dunlop, added: “We are seeking to identify a diagnostic firm to make this test commercially available.”
