Genetic Testing for Alzheimer’s Disease
What you need to know
Clarity, Confidence and Clinical Insight – When Family History Matters
At our specialist Memory & Brain Health Clinic, we understand how deeply concerns about dementia can affect individuals and families—especially when there’s a family history of Alzheimer’s disease.
Our team offers selective genetic testing as part of our advanced diagnostic services. When used appropriately, this can provide valuable information about personal risk, help clarify uncertain diagnoses, and inform future health and care planning.
Why Consider Genetic Testing for Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition. While age is the greatest risk factor, certain genetic factors—particularly the APOE gene—can influence a person’s susceptibility, especially in cases of early-onset or familial dementia.
Understanding your genetic background won’t provide a definitive answer—but in the right clinical context, it can offer clarity, guide preventive strategies, and support peace of mind for patients and their families.
The Key Gene: APOE
We focus on testing the APOE gene, which comes in three common forms: e2, e3 and e4. The e4 variant is associated with an increased risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
- Having one copy of APOE-e4 (from one parent) may modestly increase risk.
- Having two copies of APOE-e4 (one from each parent) may significantly increase risk, although it does not guarantee that Alzheimer’s will develop.
It is also important to note that many people with APOE-e4 never develop dementia, and many people without it do.
When Might Genetic Testing Be Appropriate?
We offer personalised genetic testing only when it has clear clinical value. It may be considered if:
- You’re experiencing memory or cognitive symptoms under age 65.
- You have multiple close relatives with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, particularly at younger ages.
- You are seeking proactive insights into your personal dementia risk.
- You wish to explore early lifestyle-based prevention strategies or join clinical research studies.
- A referring doctor or neurologist has suggested testing as part of a broader memory or diagnostic work-up.
We never offer genetic testing in isolation. It is always accompanied by a full consultation and context-based discussion of what the results mean—and just as importantly, what they don’t.
How Can Genetic Testing Help?
Used carefully and with proper guidance, genetic information can provide:
✅ Greater clarity around cause or risk—especially in younger patients or complex diagnostic scenarios
✅ Early lifestyle and vascular risk modification strategies for those at increased risk
✅ Support for future health, financial and legal planning
✅ Eligibility for clinical trials of Alzheimer’s prevention or treatment therapies
✅ Reassurance and the ability to make informed choices about the future
We provide thoughtful, confidential counselling around test results and ensure you are fully supported at every step.
How We Offer Genetic Testing at Our Clinic
We offer APOE genetic testing as part of our One Day Diagnostic Clarity Pathway—a structured, same-week programme that includes:
- Specialist assessment and cognitive assessment
- Detailed memory and neuropsychological testing
- Advanced brain imaging (MRI)
- Routine and specialist blood testing
- Optional genetic testing, where appropriate
Led by Consultant Specialist Dr Soumit Singhai, our diagnostic model is designed to deliver clarity, direction, and peace of mind—fast.
For patients with a strong family history or suspected familial Alzheimer’s, we can also refer for advanced gene panel testing (e.g., PSEN1, PSEN2, APP) in collaboration with genetic specialists.
Ready for Answers? We’re Here to Help
If you’re concerned about hereditary Alzheimer’s disease, early memory changes, or your own future dementia risk, our clinic is here to support you.
We offer expert, compassionate care, backed by leading diagnostics and personalised insights to guide your next steps.
