Dementia Genetic Testing
Genetic Testing for Dementia and Alzheimer’s
There are several types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common type. The various subtypes of dementia vary and have different risk factors and some people develop a combination of various types of dementia as well. The vast majority of types of dementia are not directly genetically related, however one’s genetic profile does affect one’s overall risk of developing these conditions.
Genetics and Alzheimer’s
The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. There are several genes that can play a role in dementia risk. APOE is the gene most strongly linked to the most prevalent type of Alzheimer’s disease. As we discuss further here (link to genetics page), the APOE alleles that one carries can significantly affect their overall risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
There are also much less common mutations in the genes APP, PSEN1 and PSEN2 that can significantly increase risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. These genetic mutations are rare and often associated with a very uncommon early-onset form of Alzheimer’s disease.
Genetics and Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal dementia is a less common type of dementia that has also been associated with several genetic alterations, such as those in the MAPT, C9orf72, and GRN genes among others. Less than 1% of individuals with dementia suffer from these hereditary types of the disease.
Dementia Genetic Testing by Deter Dementia
At Deter Dementia, we offer genetic dementia tests for people who may be at risk of developing dementia. All individuals who are getting older have some risk of dementia as age is one of the biggest risk factors. We have many details on various risk factors that many have that will increase their risk further.
Before and after performing genetic tests, we offer the opportunity to have consultation and counselling to discuss the benefits and risks of testing as well as the results when available. While genetic testing will not guarantee whether or not one will develop dementia, it can impact one’s risk significantly and we want you to have the opportunity to gather as much information as possible in your health journey.
Can Dementia Run in the Family?
Yes, various genes that increase risk of developing dementia can be passed along between generations and can lead to a higher than average risk of dementia in some families. As we outline in several of our resources, there are many other risk factors for developing dementia that are modifiable as well. There are many other known health conditions and lifestyle choices that can significantly alter one’s risk of developing dementia throughout their lifetime. Complete our detailed questionnaire to see how your risk can be more accurately assessed (and improved!)
In such cases how does genetic testing for dementia help? Well, by identifying your risk for dementia, a well-planned and forward-thinking lifestyle change can very often delay the onset of dementia or prevent it altogether. Therefore, for someone with a family history of dementia, dementia genetic testing can be a very useful tool to make better lifestyle choices and changes before any clinical disease manifests itself.
Testing for Dementia Gene – How Does Deter Dementia Help?
Genetic testing is particularly helpful if there is a high frequency of dementia in your extended family. Genetic testing can further assist in making the diagnosis if you have cognitive symptoms and a family history that indicates a possible hereditary cause. To determine their own risk, relatives of those with dementia can pursue genetic testing for further understanding and clarification of their risk.
Moreover, with genetic testing, other than risk identification, the right treatment option for dementia can also be further fine-tuned. While therapeutic options are still fairly limited, we hope to have treatments in the future that can be more targeted to specific subtypes or perhaps even genetic variations. Since multiple genes contribute to a disease such as Alzheimer’s, the gene identification can potentially impact the treatment options in the future and move towards medications with reduced side-effects.
Since the genetic information may inform the risk for treatment-related adverse effects, the presence or absence of certain genotypes in the future may be used to decide a treatment plan. Furthermore, genetic testing may be used by a doctor to diagnose more uncommon forms of dementia and to choose the most effective course of therapy.
As previously mentioned, genetic testing can be used to support patients in making well-informed treatment decisions, but it must be carefully examined by the individual, their family, and their physician. Before a test is ordered and when the findings are obtained as part of any diagnostic or treatment process, it is advised that individuals get genetic counselling as mentioned in our approach here at Deter Dementia.
Different Types of Dementia Genetic Testing
Due to advancements in treatment and proactive care for dementia, genetic testing is divided into two main types; Diagnostic testing and Predictive testing. These tests range from $300 – $ 2000 or even more depending on the type of equipment and medical counselling required for the test. Both types of genetic testing are performed for different reasons and those involved should always consider genetic counselling prior to testing.
Diagnostic Testing for Dementia
Diagnostic testing is done to diagnose the genetic variations, particularly in those with early-onset dementia. It is usually performed when a person has developed very early symptoms of dementia in their 50s or earlier. Diagnostic dementia testing is done to help the person with the risk evaluate and make important life changes and decisions. Diagnostic testing with genetics can help with:
- Acceptance of the diagnosis before the symptoms show up or worsen over time
- Proper evaluation and planning of multiple treatment options to choose the best one
- Make future decisions including family-planning, retirement, and many other areas of life
Diagnostic testing is usually performed on a blood sample and in special clinics for dementia care and testing. The clinical team will gather details about the patient’s medical history as well as that of their immediate family to determine whether genetic testing would be beneficial.
Predictive Testing for Dementia
To the kin and family members of a person diagnosed with dementia after diagnostic testing, predictive testing can be considered. This test allows the family members and relatives to better assess the chances of developing the same condition in the future. Predictive testing costs can vary from $200-$500 or even more. Predictive testing can be helpful in individuals deciding how much energy and time they want to focus on the key aspects to prevent dementia from occurring. Predictive Testing helps with:
- Worry or anxiety about developing dementia in the future
- Decide on personal future plans or family planning
There are pros and cons to genetic testing. It can both alleviate stress and worry about developing a condition while at the same time increase worries among individuals who test positive. It is thus very important to have an informed conversation with a genetic counsellor or other expert to determine whether genetic testing is right for you. This is to ensure that the individual understands the implications of receiving a genetic test result for themselves and their family. Many people may receive counselling and then choose not to take the genetic test thereafter.
Coming Soon
There are many ways to assess your cognition and brain health. We use formal cognitive testing to help determine your overall brain health which is the most reliable method to assess our complex brain function.
Using evidence-based assessments that can help determine different types of cognitive deficits, we will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your cognitive function.
Sign up here for more information and to be notified when we are live with cognitive testing.
