Breakthrough Blood Test Diagnoses Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with 96% Accuracy

For years, many people suffering from chronic tiredness have been told their debilitating exhaustion is psychological. But scientists now say the proof may lie in their blood.Researchers have developed a new blood test that can diagnose Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) with 96 per cent accuracy, a breakthrough in identifying a condition that has long been misunderstood.The findings come from a study titledDevelopment and validation of blood-based diagnostic biomarkers for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) using EpiSwitch® 3-dimensional genomic regulatory immuno-genetic profiling, published in theJournal of Translational Medicineby scientists from the University of East Anglia and Oxford Biodynamics.What is ME/CFS and why is it so hard to diagnose?ME/CFS is a chronic, multi-system illness affecting millions worldwide. It is characterised by overwhelmingfatigue, brain fog, post-exertional malaise, and immune dysfunction.Despite its impact, there has been no single diagnostic test, forcing doctors to rely on symptoms and by excluding other illnesses. As a result, many patients have been misdiagnosed or left untreated for years.ALSO READ:One person dies from extreme heat every minute worldwide: Lancet reportAlso ReadOne person dies from extreme heat every minute worldwide: Lancet reportFive easy breast self-exam steps that can help detect cancer earlyFrom Fitbit to notification fatigue: Can AI help us use health data better?Stress and heartbreak may have triggered Kim Kardashian's brain aneurysmHair today, not gone tomorrow: New serum may make baldness reversibleHow does the new blood test work?The team used EpiSwitch® 3D Genomics technology, which analyses how DNA folds inside cells, like examining how a long string of code loops and knots itself to control which genes turn on or off.Instead of focusing on genetic mutations, this method tracks epigenetic changes, which are shifts in gene regulation caused by immune or environmental factors.By studying blood samples from 47 severe ME/CFS patients and 61 healthy individuals, researchers mapped unique 3D DNA folding patterns that distinguish those with the illness.The model achieved 92 per cent sensitivity (correctly identifying patients with ME/CFS) and 98 per cent specificity.What’s happening biologically in people with chronic fatigue?The study revealed that ME/CFS is strongly linked to immune system dysregulation and chronic inflammation.The 3D genomic mapping highlighted several biological pathways central to the disease, including:Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-10 signalling, which control immune cell activationTNF-alpha and NF-κB pathways, which drive inflammationToll-like receptor (TLR) and JAK/STAT signalling, associated with autoimmune and neuroinflammatory disordersThese findings link ME/CFS to diseases such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and long Covid, suggesting overlapping immune dysfunction patterns.Validation for a misunderstood illnessThe research offers scientific validation to those suffering from ME/CFS, proving their illness is real, measurable, and biological.The study’s authors emphasised that the test provides not only hope but also long-awaited credibility in a field where patients have battled stigma and disbelief for decades.Since you're already here…and clearly interested in your health, take a moment to explore our varied range of stories on wellness, medical research, and public health insights.Caught flu despite the jab?Why did I catch the flu even after taking the vaccine? Doctor explainsMental health help decodedPsychiatrist vs psychologist: Who does what and whom to approach for helpFirst therapy session fears?Don’t fear therapy: Experts reveal what really happens in the first sessionSafe cough relief for kidsDo kids even need cough syrups? Doctors say they may do more harm than goodSecrets of a long lifeWant to live longer? Science says being active and organised is the keyHeart under pressureFinancial stress and heart attacks: Why money matters as much as cholesterolMyths vs immunityVaccines, weather, kadha: What really helps immunity and what doesn’tFrown lines and fine linesFrom frowns to smiles: These 7 tiny expressions speed up visible ageingCaring without crashingAgeing parents, adult kids: How to grow together without burning outFor more health updates, follow#HealthWithBSThis content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.