Although the study points the direction for future research, developing a test or tests to diagnose the condition may take several years.
“Because there are multiple genes and polymorphisms that contribute to CFS, there likely are many more genes and polymorphisms that need to be identified before a test that relies on genetic information can be useful,” says Vernon. “However, it is now possible to scan the entire human genome for these polymorphisms, and we currently are in the process of doing this,” she says.
Once scientists understand more about how the genes and the symptoms, such as cognitive impairment or sleep disturbance, are connected, they can help doctors improve therapies, says Vernon.
