Researchers say they have created the world’s first reliable blood test to diagnose myalgic encephalomyelitis, or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) — a breakthrough that could transform care for millions of patients.
Currently, there is no diagnostic test for ME/CFS, meaning patients are often diagnosed based on symptoms alone and may go years without proper recognition or treatment.
The study, led by Prof Dmitry Pshezhetskiy of the University of East Anglia’s Norwich Medical School, identified unique biological markers in the blood of people with ME/CFS. “Our discovery offers the potential for a simple, accurate blood test to confirm diagnosis and enable earlier, more effective support,” he said.
The research, conducted with Oxford Biodynamics (OBD), analysed how DNA is folded in the blood of 47 ME/CFS patients compared with 61 healthy individuals. The team found a consistent pattern unique to those with the illness.
Published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, the test showed 92% sensitivity — correctly identifying those with the condition — and 98% specificity, accurately ruling out those without it.
“This is a significant step forward,” said Pshezhetskiy. “For the first time, we have a reliable blood test that can identify ME/CFS.”
Dr Alexandre Akoulitchev of OBD said the use of epigenetic markers, which change over a person’s lifetime, was key to achieving such accuracy.
However, experts cautioned that more research is needed. Dr Charles Shepherd of the ME Association called the findings “an important step forward” but stressed that the test must be proven to work across all stages of the disease and rule out similar conditions.
Prof Chris Ponting of the University of Edinburgh added that the claims were “premature,” warning that independent validation was essential before any clinical use. He also noted the test could cost around £1,000.
While promising, scientists agree that broader trials are needed before the test can be widely adopted — but the breakthrough marks a hopeful moment for those living with ME/CFS.
