Researchers in the UK say they’ve developed the first reliable blood test for diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
The test, created by scientists at the University of East Anglia and Oxford Biodynamics, identifies a unique DNA-folding pattern in blood samples.
It correctly detected ME/CFS in 92% of cases and ruled it out in 98%, according to results published in the Journal of Translational Medicine.
“This is a significant step forward,” said lead researcher Prof Dmitry Pshezhetskiy. “For the first time, we can reliably identify ME/CFS.”
The discovery could speed up diagnosis and improve care for patients who often wait years for recognition of their symptoms.
However, experts urged caution. “These results are promising but need independent validation,” said Dr Charles Shepherd of the ME Association.
Prof Chris Ponting from the University of Edinburgh called the claims “premature,” warning that more studies are required before clinical use.
If proven effective, the test could mark a major breakthrough for millions living with the misunderstood and debilitating condition.
