Researchers work on blood test to diagnose burn-out

Researchers at the University of Leuven are working on a blood test that can define whether someone is suffering from burn-out. There are no diagnostic criteria to objectively determine burn-out, and the blood test should make it easier to distinguish the condition from depression. 

“We are looking into how genes respond to a stress reaction and want to gather from that whether someone is suffering from burn-out or another nervous disorder, like depression,” Lode Godderis, professor in occupational medicine, told Radio 1.

While depression and burn-out are similar disorders, there are important differences concerning treatment. “You shouldn’t treat burn-out with antidepressants,” Godderis said.

The researchers focus on two sorts of genes: a group that plays a role in stress reactions and a group that influences mood and behaviour. DNA taken from the blood will be used as a substitute for brain cells.

“We are planning additional tests to examine whether what we see in the blood corresponds with what we can expect in the brain,” explained Godderis. “But we have indications that such a blood marker can work.”

Doctors currently diagnose burn-out on the basis of a list of questions and symptoms. “We need such a blood marker because there is no consensus in the medical world about the diagnosis of burn-out,” explained Godderis. “Officially, you cannot currently determine burn-out.”

Photo: Ingimage