Researchers say they’ve developed the world’s first reliable blood test for diagnosing myalgic encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
The University of East Anglia and Oxford Biodynamics study identified a unique DNA-folding pattern in ME/CFS patients not seen in healthy people.
The test showed 92% sensitivity and 98% specificity in trials involving 47 patients and 61 controls.
“This could transform diagnosis and management,” said lead researcher Prof Dmitry Pshezhetskiy. “Patients have waited years for recognition.”
The test uses epigenetic markers that change over time, not fixed genetic code, said OBD’s chief scientist Alexandre Akoulitchev.
Experts, however, urged caution. “The results are promising but need validation in larger, independent studies,” warned Prof Chris Ponting.
Dr Charles Shepherd from the ME Association agreed, adding the test must be proven effective across all disease stages and against similar conditions.
If confirmed, the breakthrough could offer faster, more accurate diagnoses and earlier treatment for thousands of ME/CFS patients worldwide.
