Diagnostics

We help patients and clinicians find answers.

Protein biomarker analysis

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) via CSF

As Belgium’s national reference service for suspected Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (in collaboration with Sciensano), we provide diagnostic support through protein biomarker analysis. Standardized pre-analytical procedures and validated laboratory methods ensure reliable results. Reports are designed to be clear and clinically actionable, helping guide patient care and further investigation.

https://labogids.uza.be/analyses/creutzfeldt-jakob-ziekte-van-14-3-3-screening-csv-nrc
Neurodegenerative A/T/N profiling for Alzheimer’s disease via CSF

We offer biomarker-based A/T/N profiling to support the differential diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Measurements include t-Tau, pTau181, and Aβ42/40 in cerebrospinal fluid. Results are reported according to current diagnostic frameworks and can be applied both in clinical practice and in research cohorts. This profiling provides a validated approach to confirm or rule out Alzheimer’s pathology.

https://labogids.uza.be/analyses/alzheimer-ziekte-van-atn-profilering-csv
Alzheimer’s disease probability assessment via EDTA Plasma

Our probability assessment test uses pTau217 in blood (EDTA plasma) to detect early signs of Alzheimer's-related changes. It is suitable only when there is a clinical suspicion of Alzheimer's disease, based on objective cognitive deficits. While less invasive than a spinal tap, results must be confirmed by the established CSF A/T/N profile. Kidney function and body weight (BMI) can influence the outcome. The test is for research use only (RUO) and is awaiting CE-IVD approval.

https://labogids.uza.be/analyses/alzheimer-ziekte-van-probabiliteitsbepaling-edta-plasma

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Neuromuscular disorders & malignant hyperthermia testing

Our neuropathology team analyzes muscle and nerve biopsies using specialized techniques, including histoenzymology and electron microscopy, to support diagnosis of neuromuscular disorders. As Belgium’s national reference center for malignant hyperthermia, we also perform in-vitro contracture testing (IVCT) on patient muscle tissue to assess susceptibility and guide clinical management.

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All forms EN/NL/FR

Autopsy & neurobiomaterial collection for neurodegenerative disease research

Post-mortem brain examination is the gold standard for diagnosing many neurodegenerative diseases. At IBB, our neuropathology team, in collaboration with UZA’s anatomo-pathology department, performs detailed autopsies that include the collection of diverse biomaterials such as brain, spinal cord, skin, muscle, nerve, and other relevant tissues. These samples are preserved in both fixed and frozen formats, carefully examined macroscopically and microscopically, and further analyzed with immunohistochemical markers like tau, amyloid-beta, TDP-43, and alpha-synuclein. The outcomes provide diagnostic confirmation, support research validation, and deliver feedback to clinical teams and families.

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FAQ donor donation

All forms EN/NL/FR

Genetic analysis (via UZA CMG)

When genetic testing is indicated, we coordinate through the UZA Center for Medical Genetics. Available panels include early-onset dementia and related neurodegeneration, covering key genes such as APP, PSEN1, PSEN2, MAPT, GRN, PRNP, CSF1R, TBK1, TREM2, VCP, TARDBP and more, plus C9ORF72 repeat expansion on request. Results are integrated with biomarker and pathology data for a unified report.

UZA CMG genetic testing forms (only available in Dutch)

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Diagnostics

Protein biomarker analysis

Downloads

Neuromuscular disorders & malignant hyperthermia testing

Downloads

Autopsy & neurobiomaterial collection for neurodegenerative disease research

Downloads

Genetic analysis (via UZA CMG)

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