Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
Not a rare disease
Other Names:
Systemic exertion intolerance disease; ME/CFS; Chronic fatigue syndrome/ myalgic encephalomyelitis
Summary
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is an umbrella term that includes both myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It is a serious, chronic and complex disease that affect many systems of the body and can profoundly impair the daily activities. The main symptom is a disabling fatigue that does not improve with rest and that last at least 6 months.
[1][2] Fatigue may get worse after activities, which is known as post-exertional malaise. Other signs and symptoms may include muscle pain, joint pain, concentration and memory problems, headaches, sleep problems, fever, sore throat, and/or tender lymph nodes.
[3][1] It generally occurs in young adults (20 to 40 years of age) and is twice as common in women.
[1][4][2][5]
The exact cause is not known, but symptoms may be triggered by an infection.
[4][1] Diagnosis is based on the most specific features and there are no specific laboratory tests. There is still no cure or effective treatment for this condition but there are several clinical trials.
[3][6][5]
While the term ME/CFS is widely used, there is still a debate in the medical literature about the relationship between myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome and there is no universally accepted definition.
[7] The term “systemic exertion intolerance disease” was proposed as new term for both diseases instead of ME/CFS.
[6]
Last updated: 4/14/2020
Cause
The cause of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome is not known. Some researchers have proposed that this condition is caused by viral infections or by immunological, hormonal or psychiatric problems. However, none of these possible explanations are proven.
[4][1] Some researches believe that there may be a genetic predisposition for this condition and stress-related events act as triggers.
[4][6]
Last updated: 4/14/2020
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