Diagnostic performance of salivary markers of Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: High heterogeneity of diagnostic accuracy have been reported for salivary markers of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the reasons remain unclear. This systematic review aims to evaluate the potential sources of heterogeneity in the diagnostic performance of salivary biomarkers for the identification of AD. We systematically reviewed four databases for studies from inception to 2025. We evaluated biomarker sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC). This study was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Of 3118 studies, 18 met the inclusion criteria. AUC data were available only for amyloid beta (Aβ)42 and lactoferrin. Pre-analytical properties were a major source of heterogeneity, comprehending prior orientation, time of collection, recipient material, and centrifugation methods. The main source of variability likely stems from substantial differences in pre-analytical procedures across studies. Further studies on salivary biomarkers in AD implementing standardized protocols are warranted.
Source: Alzheimer s & Dementia
DOI: 10.1002/alz.71248
Institutions: Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, University of Pittsburgh, University of Gothenburg, University of Arizona, Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, Instituto do Cérebro, McGill University Research Centre for Studies in Aging, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, McGill University, Hospital Moinhos de Vento
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,200
Awards: G1473211987, G1611424524, G1644452137, G1767381232, G2161849118, G2201298003, G2626969696, G2823776494, Reactive Astrocyte Phenotypes in the Pre-amyloid Phase, G3680114113, G4037626965, The interaction of glial changes in cognitive reserve, Glial signatures of tau propagation in Alzheimer's disease, Long COVID Effects on Brain Cognition and Biomarkers, G64561122, G6549679978, G8735632102, G8978612960, G906963963, G941995746
OpenAlex ID: W7151756903