Research Unlocks a Breakthrough: New Blood Test Accurately Diagnoses Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) with 96% Precision

Introduction

Researchers from the University of East Anglia in collaboration with Oxford Biodynamics have developed a revolutionary blood test that can diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), with an accuracy of 96%. The new test, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, could transform how this complex neurological condition is identified and managed, offering validation and hope to millions affected globally.​

Understanding ME/CFS and Its Diagnostic Challenge

ME/CFS is a multifactorial, debilitating neurological condition that affects the immune, metabolic, and nervous systems simultaneously. Its hallmark symptoms include extreme fatigue, post-exertional malaise, chronic pain, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties. The absence of a single biomarker has traditionally forced diagnoses based on exclusion, leading to patient frustration and clinical uncertainty.​

The Science Behind the New Blood Test

This pioneering test uses Oxford Biodynamics’ EpiSwitch® 3D Genomics technology to analyze how DNA folds within cells, mapping structural variations that modify gene expression. Like an origami pattern, DNA’s folding regulates which genes are active or silent. In individuals with ME/CFS, researchers identified a distinctive set of over 200 altered 3D chromosomal conformations unique to the condition.​

These biomarkers collectively form a biological “signature” that can be detected from a simple blood sample, fast-tracking diagnosis while avoiding traditional exclusion-based delays. The study analyzed samples from 47 ME/CFS patients and 61 healthy controls, producing a 96% accuracy rate—an unprecedented achievement in this field.​

Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment

Lead investigator Prof. Dmitry Pshezhetskiy from the Norwich Medical School emphasized that this discovery represents a milestone in objectifying a condition long dismissed as psychosomatic. He explained that mapping these DNA structures could also guide targeted therapies by revealing immune and inflammatory pathways involved in the disease.​

Moreover, clinicians like Dr. David Cutler noted that this tool could eliminate unnecessary medical searches and costs, providing confidence in the diagnosis and allowing early management. The test also holds promise for related post-viral conditions such as Long COVID, which share similar biological signatures.​

Limitations and Future Research

Despite its promise, experts such as Dr. Swapnil Patel urge caution. The sample size was small and limited to patients with severe ME/CFS cases, raising questions about generalizability to broader populations. To confirm clinical reliability, large-scale validation studies across diverse demographics are necessary. Researchers are optimistic that these next steps could establish ME/CFS as a diagnosable biological condition rather than a subjective symptom cluster.​

Conclusion

The University of East Anglia and Oxford Biodynamics have made a groundbreaking advance in ME/CFS research by developing a 96% accurate blood test based on epigenetic and genomic markers. While replication in larger studies is required, this discovery holds the potential to redefine the diagnostic landscape for chronic fatigue and related post-viral syndromes worldwide.​

References:

1. Medical News Today. “New blood test may help diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome with 96% accuracy.” October 2025.​

2. News Medical. “Scientists develop a high accuracy blood test to diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.” October 2025.​

3. ScienceAlert. “New Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 'Blood Test' Raises Hope and Skepticism.” October 2025.​

4. The Indian Practitioner. “Scientists Develop Accurate Blood Test for CFS.” October 2025.​

5. NDTV Health. “Breakthrough Blood Test May Diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with 96% Accuracy.” October 2025.​

6. StudyFinds.org. “First-Ever Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Blood Test Achieves 96% Accuracy.” October 2025.​

7. Health & Me. “New High-Accuracy Blood Test Could Finally Diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.” October 2025.​

8. London Stock Exchange News. “OBD and UEA Develop Test for Chronic Fatigue.” October 2025.​