Dr Benjamin Natelson has conducted a review of research studies comparing CFS and Fibromyalgia and is currently recruiting in the US for a number of studies into the nature of CFS and FM.
Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia (FM) are medically unexplained syndromes that can and often do co-occur. For this reason, some have posited that the two are part of the same somatic syndrome-examples of symptom amplification.
This hypothesis would suggest that few differences exist between the two syndromes.
To evaluate this interpretation, we have searched the literature for articles comparing CFS to FM, reviewing only those articles which report differences between the two.
This review presents data showing differences across a number of parameters-implying that the underlying pathophysiology in CFS may differ from that of FM. We hope that our review encourages other groups to look for additional differences between CFS and FM.
By continuing to preserve the unique illness definitions of the two syndromes, clinicians will be able to better identify, understand and provide treatment for these individuals.
He has identified that the differences fall into these categories:
- General (e.g., age of onset patterns);
- Hormone and neurotransmitter dynamics (e.g., regarding somatomedin/growth hormone, melatonin, cortisol, spinal fluid substance P);
- Genetic profiles, and gene expression (e.g., gene upregulation patterns after exertion)
- Mechanisms of autonomic function;
- Muscle biochemistry;
- Sleep disruption patterns/factors;
- Comorbidities (e.g., PTSD rates).
