There are over 20 million Americans suffering from a group of chronic disabling disorders analogous to the confused interplay of language described in the biblical Tower of Babel, who are diagnosed without a clear elucidation of pathophysiologic mechanisms. Fibromyalgia, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), Neuropsychiatric illnesses, Post-Lyme Syndrome and most recently the post COVID-19 long haul syndrome are but a few of these conditions. Research has demonstrated that common to many of these conditions is dysregulation of the immune system resulting from an infectious insult. Multiple questions present themselves in patients suffering with these disorders such: Why does not everyone who suffers an infectious insult develop immune dysregulation? Given the high prevalence of infections in childhood, why do only a subset of children develop PANS/PANDAS? Genetics is certainly one factor, but we are now learning that epigenetics may be another piece of the puzzle.
The goals of this conference are three-fold:
- First, we will explore the role of genetic and epigenetic factors that predispose an individual for immune dysregulation.
- Secondly, we will analyze the current evidence for infection-mediated immune dysregulation as it relates to Fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, neuropsychiatric illnesses, Post-Lyme syndrome, PANS/PANDAS and the post COVID-19 long haul syndrome.
- Thirdly, we will examine current and new diagnostic testing procedures and treatment options for these conditions.
This program is being jointly sponsored by the International Center for Interdisciplinary Studies of Immunology (ICISI) at Georgetown University Medical Center and The Foundation for Total Recovery. It will be held virtually and open to both professionals and to the public.
