Scientists Create First Accurate Blood Test for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Scientists have achieved a major medical breakthrough by developing the world’s first blood test for myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Until now, patients were diagnosed only through symptoms, leaving many undiagnosed for years.
Prof Dmitry Pshezhetskiy from the University of East Anglia (UEA) led the research and said the test could transform diagnosis. “ME/CFS is a serious and often disabling illness marked by extreme fatigue that rest cannot cure,” he explained. Many patients, he added, have been ignored or misdiagnosed due to the absence of a clear test.
The research team from UEA and Oxford Biodynamics (OBD) studied DNA folding patterns in blood samples. They examined 47 patients with severe ME/CFS and 61 healthy individuals. The results revealed a unique DNA pattern present only in ME/CFS patients. Using this, scientists created a test with 92% sensitivity and 98% specificity, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine.
How the Test Could Change Diagnosis
According to Pshezhetskiy, the test could allow faster and more accurate diagnosis, helping patients receive early treatment and support. Alexandre Akoulitchev from OBD added that the team used “epigenetic markers,” which change over time, making the test highly precise.
Experts Urge Caution
However, some experts say more studies are needed. Dr Charles Shepherd from the ME Association called the findings promising but stressed that the test must prove reliable in all stages of the illness. Prof Chris Ponting from the University of Edinburgh added that while the results are exciting, the test must be validated in independent studies before being used clinically.
