Researchers say they’ve developed the first reliable blood test to detect myalgic encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
Currently, ME/CFS is diagnosed only through symptoms, often leaving patients undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.
The University of East Anglia and Oxford Biodynamics discovered distinct DNA-folding patterns unique to people with ME/CFS.
Testing on 47 patients and 61 healthy adults produced a 92% sensitivity rate and 98% specificity.
“This could transform diagnosis and management,” said lead researcher Prof Dmitry Pshezhetskiy.
The findings, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, mark a major step toward earlier, more accurate detection.
Experts, however, urge caution. “The claims are premature,” said Prof Chris Ponting. “More independent studies are needed.”
The test may cost around £1,000 and must be validated across wider patient groups before entering clinical use.
