A blood test can help doctors detect ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and predict how the degenerative disease will progress in patients, a new study suggests.

Diagnosing ALS is a challenge, but new research has found a highly effective way to detect and track the disease using blood biomarkers. The study compared three types of biomarkers and found that neurofilament light chain proteins stood out as the most reliable indicator,

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can sometimes be difficult to diagnose or to predict how quickly the disease is likely to progress. A new study helps determine which blood tests are best at identifying and monitoring ALS.

The researchers emphasized that anyone with memory concerns should see a neurologist for a comprehensive evaluation rather than relying on blood test results alone. They said roughly half of all Americans with Alzheimer’s are thought to be undiagnosed, particularly those with early-stage cases that can benefit most from treatment.