Category Archives: News
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
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.
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
29% of children with CFS suffer significant psychological distress
Abstract Objective To describe the prevalence of depression in children with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)/myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and investigate the relationship between depression in CFS/ME and clinical symptoms such as fatigue, disability, pain and school attendance. Design Cross-sectional survey … Continue reading
Does the energy envelope theory improve function?
Abstract Objective/Hypothesis: The objective of this study was to examine sub-types of individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome based on variables that are associated with the energy envelope theory and to examine the role of coping strategies in explaining the differences … Continue reading
Couples’ experiences of interacting with others in CFS: a qualitative study
Abstract Objectives: Social isolation and stigma are frequently reported by patients with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis and relationships in the home environment with those close to the patients (their ‘significant others’) may thus be particularly important. Rather little attention has … Continue reading
