Beta amyloid peptides accumulate in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. The ratio of two key peptides — Aβ42 and Aβ40 — in blood plasma reflects amyloid accumulation in the brain. A lower ratio is associated with greater amyloid pathology and higher likelihood of Alzheimer's disease.
This test is part of evaluation in patients with mild cognitive impairment or symptoms of dementia, particularly when more invasive testing (such as PET imaging or cerebrospinal fluid analysis) is not readily available. Results help support clinical assessment but do not replace comprehensive neurological evaluation. Sample type is plasma.