Monthly Archives: May 2013
A strategy for defining and distinguishing ME & CFS
Abstract The symptom spectrum of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) was first detailed in 1959 and later operationalised into a diagnostic protocol (Melvin Ramsey). In 1988 the Holmes case definition coined the term chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Fukuda’s Centers for Disease Control … Continue reading
Definitions of CFS/ME used in prevalence research
Abstract Purpose Prevalence estimates have been based on several case definitions of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The purpose of this work is to provide a rigorous overview of their application in prevalence research. Methods A systematic review of primary studies … Continue reading
Increased 5-HT autoimmune activity in ME/CFS
Abstract Background Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is accompanied by activation of immuno-inflammatory pathways, increased bacterial translocation and autoimmune responses to serotonin (5-HT). Inflammation is known to damage 5-HT neurons while bacterial translocation may drive autoimmune responses. This study has … Continue reading
“Bedroom tax” hearing
The High Court this week is considering 10 claims being brought against the Government’s ‘Bedroom Tax’ that came into force on 1 April this year. The claims, made by a range of people affected by the Bedroom Tax, are being … Continue reading
Caru James interview about ME on S4C
Caru James talks in Welsh on S4C’s Prynhawn Da about her experience of ME and employment with ME. Prynhawn Da episode 53 (available until 20 June) Caru’s interview begins at 27 minutes for 5 minutes.
WAMES view of collaborative research into ME & CFS
3 major research collaborations have been anounced over the last few months: On the 23rd of April 2013 the UK CFS/ME Research Collaborative (UK CMRC) was launched. Key ME charities and biomedical researchers have joined together with researchers who have … Continue reading
Llanelli Library staff help to raise awareness of ME
From the South Wales Evening Post Saturday, May 04, 2013: Llanelli Library is doing its bit to draw attention to the needs of those who suffer with ME and their carers. Library assistant Caru James is leading efforts to educate … Continue reading
ME recognition & care ‘lacking’ in Wales
An ITV news report on 13th May 2013 highlighted the problems faced by people with ME in finding health and social care in Wales: People with the condition ME in Wales say they suffer from an absence of specialist care, … Continue reading
Internet CBT no more effective long term than usual care
Abstract OBJECTIVE: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is known to be an effective treatment of adolescents with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), but its availability is limited. Fatigue in Teenagers on the Internet (FITNET), an Internet-based CBT program for adolescents with CFS, … Continue reading
Fatigue associated with daily cytokine fluctuations
Abstract Background Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating disorder characterized by persistent fatigue that is not alleviated by rest. The lack of a clearly identified underlying mechanism has hindered the development of effective treatments. Studies have demonstrated elevated levels … Continue reading