Description

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), is a debilitating condition marked by persistent fatigue that doesn't improve with rest and often worsens with activity. This condition can affect multiple body systems, including the immune, endocrine, metabolic, and nervous systems.

The Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Blood Panel evaluates biomarkers that help identify potential underlying causes of fatigue, immune dysfunction, inflammation, and nutritional deficiencies. Understanding these factors helps guide clinical management and tailor effective therapies.

Included Biomarkers and Their Relevance to CFS:

ANA Screen, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern

  • Detects autoantibodies that may be linked to autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune responses are suspected contributors to CFS, especially when symptoms overlap with other autoimmune conditions.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

  • A general marker of inflammation. Elevated CRP levels can indicate systemic inflammation, commonly seen in CFS patients.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Evaluates overall health and detects conditions like anemia or infection. Fatigue in CFS can worsen with low red blood cells or other hematological issues.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

  • Assesses kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar levels. These values are critical for ruling out metabolic conditions that could contribute to fatigue.

Cortisol (AM)

  • Measures adrenal function and stress hormone levels. Many CFS patients experience abnormal cortisol rhythms or low cortisol levels, which can contribute to fatigue and poor stress adaptation.

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) IgG/IgM Panel

  • Screens for current or past infection with Epstein-Barr Virus, which has been frequently implicated in post-viral CFS cases.

Erythropoietin (EPO)

  • Regulates red blood cell production. Low levels may contribute to fatigue due to anemia or other conditions affecting red blood cell production.

Ferritin

  • Measures iron storage. Low ferritin can cause iron-deficiency anemia, which is a common cause of fatigue. Even suboptimal ferritin levels can negatively impact energy.

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)

  • Reflects average blood glucose levels over the past 2–3 months. Poor glucose regulation can contribute to fatigue, cognitive impairment, and energy crashes.

Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)

  • Measures growth hormone activity, which is crucial for cellular repair, muscle health, and energy metabolism. Low IGF-1 is often seen in CFS and linked to poor recovery.

Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)

  • Assesses iron status. Together with ferritin, these tests help determine if fatigue is due to iron deficiency or altered iron metabolism.

TSH, Third Generation

  • Evaluates thyroid function. Hypothyroidism can mimic CFS symptoms, including low energy, depression, and cognitive impairment.

Zinc Protoporphyrin

  • Assesses for functional iron deficiency and lead exposure. Elevated levels can indicate disrupted heme synthesis, contributing to fatigue and weakness.

Fasting Requirement

  • Not required

Why This Panel is Important:

The Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Blood Panel is essential in diagnosing CFS and identifying possible contributing factors. By evaluating immune dysfunction, metabolic imbalances, hormonal irregularities, and nutrient deficiencies, it provides healthcare providers with the tools to develop an effective, personalized treatment plan for individuals suffering from CFS.