Description

Uncover the Root Causes of Persistent Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), is a complex and often misunderstood condition marked by overwhelming fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental exertion. It affects multiple body systems, including the immune, endocrine, and nervous systems.

This blood panel investigates key biomarkers that may help identify underlying contributors to fatigue—such as inflammation, immune irregularities, viral reactivation, hormonal imbalance, or nutritional deficiencies.

Included Biomarkers and Their Relevance

ANA Screen, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern

  • Detects autoantibodies that may signal autoimmune activity.
  • Why it matters: Autoimmune overlap is suspected in some CFS cases, especially when symptoms mimic other immune-based disorders.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

  • Measures general inflammation in the body.
  • Why it matters: Elevated levels are commonly found in CFS and can indicate systemic immune activation.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Assesses red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets.
  • Why it matters: Identifies anemia, infection, or other blood-related conditions contributing to fatigue.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

  • Evaluates kidney/liver function, electrolytes, and glucose.
  • Why it matters: Rules out metabolic causes of fatigue like poor organ function or electrolyte imbalance.

Cortisol (AM)

  • Measures your body’s stress hormone levels.
  • Why it matters: Low or irregular cortisol can indicate adrenal dysfunction, which is frequently seen in CFS patients.

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) IgG/IgM Panel

  • Tests for active or past infection with EBV.
  • Why it matters: EBV is strongly linked to post-viral fatigue syndromes and may be a trigger for CFS.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

  • Stimulates red blood cell production.
  • Why it matters: Low EPO levels can lead to fatigue due to decreased oxygen-carrying capacity.

Ferritin

  • Measures iron storage.
  • Why it matters: Low ferritin—even without anemia—can cause chronic tiredness and low stamina.

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)

  • Reflects long-term blood sugar control.
  • Why it matters: Blood sugar instability can cause energy crashes, brain fog, and fatigue.

Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)

  • Reflects growth hormone activity.
  • Why it matters: Low IGF-1 is often linked to poor tissue repair and low energy levels in CFS.

Iron & Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)

  • Provides a deeper look at iron availability in the body.
  • Why it matters: Helps diagnose iron deficiency that may not show up on ferritin alone.

TSH, Third Generation

  • Evaluates thyroid health.
  • Why it matters: Even mild thyroid dysfunction can mimic or worsen CFS symptoms.

Zinc Protoporphyrin

  • Detects functional iron deficiency or lead exposure.
  • Why it matters: Elevated levels can disrupt energy production and oxygen transport.

Fasting Requirements

No fasting is required for this panel.

Why This Panel Matters

The CFS Blood Panel helps uncover the physiological imbalances behind persistent fatigue. It is useful for individuals experiencing:

  • Long-term, unexplained exhaustion
  • Post-viral fatigue
  • Brain fog or cognitive slowdown
  • Poor stress recovery
  • Weakness or muscle fatigue

Early detection leads to better outcomes.

By identifying immune, metabolic, and nutritional irregularities, this panel empowers healthcare providers to develop targeted, individualized treatment plans—so patients can regain energy, improve function, and reclaim quality of life.