A new blood test for fibromyalgia (FM), developed by EpicGenetics in Santa Monica, CA, claims a 99% accuracy rate in differentiating FM from other chronic illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), multiple sclerosis (MS), and lupus. This test, launched in April, analyzes chemokines and cytokines—protein molecules produced by white blood cells—identifying lower levels in fibromyalgia patients, suggesting a weakened immune system compared to healthy individuals. The test results are typically available within a week.
EpicGenetics’ Claims:
The company’s CEO, Bruce Gillis, highlights the test’s ability to distinguish the immune system patterns of fibromyalgia patients from those with RA and other autoimmune disorders. This, they claim, results in a highly accurate diagnosis.
Medical Community Concerns:
Despite EpicGenetics’ claims, the medical community remains cautious. Skepticism centers on the potential for overlap in chemokine and cytokine levels across various chronic illnesses, raising concerns about the test’s reliability and the stated 99% accuracy. Further research and independent validation are needed to confirm the test’s accuracy and effectiveness.
The Test’s Mechanism:
The EpicGenetics test identifies variations in the levels of chemokines and cytokines in blood cells. The company postulates that lower levels of these proteins in fibromyalgia patients indicate a distinctive immune response profile.
Conclusion:
While the new fibromyalgia blood test from EpicGenetics offers a potentially revolutionary approach to early and accurate diagnosis, its claims require rigorous independent validation by the wider medical community. Further research is essential to establish the test’s clinical utility and reliability before widespread adoption. Patients should discuss any new diagnostic tests with their physicians before proceeding.
