The idea that diagnosis of ME is difficult and done by exclusion only is a myth

Nicola Reiss wrote:

The idea that diagnosis of ME is difficult and done by exclusion only is a myth. The Canadian Diagnostic Criteria are an excellent initial guide for diagnosis (http://www.cfids-cab.org/MESA/ccpc.html). I have recently had an initial diagnosis of ME confirmed by a second doctor here in Australia - a GP, not a specialist - using the Canadian Diagnostic Criteria along with H2S and lactose/fructose malabsorption testing, taking a complete medical history, and a physical exam using criteria known to be present in ME. If this doctor can do it, then so can any other doctor who cares to learn and make the effort.

Tests that are used in diagnosing the illness include: detection of hydrogen sulphide (H2S); tests for lactose and fructose malabsorption (see the work of Dr Kenny de Meirleir in Belgium); Cardio-Pulmonary Exercise Testing with measurement of VO2 max, anaerobic threshold, and maximal heart rate and respiration; Brain neuro SPECT & PET scans and MRI brain scan; Mitochondrial Dysfunction; TH1/TH2 imbalance; Natural Killer Cell Function (Activity) testing; abnormalities of the 2-5A pathway (RNase-L ratio); Virology; Heart Function; Neurocognitive testing & sleep studies; Endocrine testing.

Additional information on testing can be found here: http://esme-eu.com/testing/category123.html
Amy - thank you for continuing to cover this urgent health issue. Please look very closely at the work of Dr Byron Hyde and Dr Kenny de Meirleir - both leaders in the field of ME diagnosis.

See also: Diagnosing ME/CFS in ten minutes with near 100% accuracy