Scientists at Lund University have developed a new digital cognitive test called BioCog, which will help primary care physicians identify patients at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and refer them for further examination. The study was published in the journal Nature Medicine.

BioCog is a self-administered test on a tablet that takes minimal time for the patient and requires almost no involvement from medical staff. It assesses memory (word recall and reproduction), attention and information processing speed, time orientation, and the ability to recognize previously learned words. 

Unlike traditional “paper” tests, the digital version records more indicators, such as reaction speed or the time taken to find the correct answer.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. With the advent of new drugs that slow its progression, it is especially important to make an accurate and early diagnosis. 

Today, blood tests for phosphorylated tau protein, which allow for highly accurate detection of the disease, are only available in specialized clinics. BioCog will help determine who really needs such a test during the initial consultation at a polyclinic.

The test has been validated in more than 600 patients with cognitive complaints. Scientists note that its use in combination with blood tests significantly improves the accuracy of diagnosis and facilitates the work of general practitioners. 

“Our digital test provides an objective picture of cognitive impairment at an earlier stage and with greater accuracy than standard methods. This will help to identify in a timely manner which patients may need new drug therapies for Alzheimer's disease,” said Oscar Hansson, professor of neurology at Lund University.