New blood test marks breakthrough in diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome
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Scientists have announced the development of the world’s first blood test capable of accurately identifying myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) — a condition long considered difficult to diagnose.
The new test could bring hope to patients who often face years of uncertainty and misdiagnosis.
Currently, ME/CFS is diagnosed only through symptoms such as extreme fatigue, poor concentration, and muscle pain, as no standard laboratory test exists.
The new approach, developed by researchers at the University of East Anglia and Oxford Biodynamics, examines the folding patterns of DNA in blood cells to detect a distinctive biological signature associated with the disease.
In trials involving 47 people with severe ME/CFS and 61 healthy individuals, scientists found a consistent pattern unique to affected patients. The resulting test demonstrated an accuracy rate of over 90% in identifying positive cases and correctly ruling out healthy controls. Researchers believe this could pave the way for faster, more reliable diagnosis and earlier management.
The discovery relies on “epigenetic” changes — molecular markers that can shift during a person’s lifetime — rather than fixed genetic mutations. This approach allowed scientists to detect biological differences that reflect the body’s response to the condition.
However, other specialists have called for caution.
They note that the study’s sample size was small and limited to severe cases. Larger, independent trials are needed to confirm whether the test can reliably detect early-stage or mild ME/CFS, and to rule out overlaps with other chronic or autoimmune disorders that share similar symptoms.
Some researchers also warned that the test may be costly, potentially limiting its availability if adopted in clinical settings.
While the findings mark a promising step forward, experts agree that more robust validation is essential before the test can be used in hospitals. For now, it represents an important milestone toward understanding and diagnosing a complex, often misunderstood illness.