It was confirmed last week by DX Revision Watch, that the recording of M.E. and CFS as previous examples of a ‘multisystem disorder’ will now be replaced in SNOMED CT by the more appropriate, ‘disorder of the nervous system’.

This follows the welcome efforts of advocate Suzy Chapman, who writes the authoritative blog, DX Revision Watch, and Sonya Chowdhury, on behalf of Forward ME and Action for M.E.

SNOMED CT is a comprehensive electronic clinical classification system used by the NHS, that records known diagnoses and symptoms with the aim of making clinical information consistent across healthcare settings.

In some respects it would seem to be more relevant to UK residents than the World Health Organisation international classification system, as electronic NHS patient records should be updated to reflect the change.

While chronic fatigue syndrome unfortunately remains the parent term in this clinical vocabulary, M.E. is recognised as a synonym along with other recognised terms.

The change will take place in the UK in October, and, as SNOMED CT is also used internationally, it will also be reflected in the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and other European countries.

It is too soon to say what practical effect, if any, this might have on patient relations and treatment within the NHS, but it at least means that ME/CFS will now be listed under a more appropriate heading.