Blood Biomarkers for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Background

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) – also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME).

• Symptoms: Persistent exhaustion, dizziness, disturbed sleep, cognitive impairment (“brain fog”).

• Current diagnosis: No definitive lab test; based on self-reported symptoms and clinical exclusion of other conditions.

Study Details

• Samples: Blood plasma from CFS patients and healthy individuals.

• Method: Sequenced RNA particles in plasma.

• Reason: These RNA fragments are released due to cell damage and death.

• Finding: Specific biomarkers in blood linked to CFS patients, absent or minimal in healthy controls.

Significance

• Could lead to a reliable laboratory test for CFS diagnosis.

• May improve early detection and clinical management.

• Opens pathways for targeted therapeutic research.