Research abstract:

Aim

The diagnosis and management of paediatric chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encepnalomyelitis (CFS/ME) represent ongoing challenges for paediatricians. A better understanding of current approaches at a national level is important in informing where research and education could improve treatment outcomes. We aimed to examine current diagnosis and management practices for CFS/ME by Australian paediatricians.

Method

An online survey was sent to members of the Australian Paediatric Research Network. The primary outcomes of interest included diagnostic criteria used, medical investigations and management practices in paediatric CFS/ME.

Results

One hundred seventy-eight (41%) of 430 eligible paediatricians responded, with 70 of the 178 (39%) reporting that they diagnose and manage CFS/ME as part of their practice. Medical investigations used for diagnosis were variable. Conditions that more than half of the paediatricians reported as commonly co-occurring (i.e. present in >50% of cases) included somatisation disorders, anxiety, depression and fibromyalgia. There was wide variation in behavioural and pharmacological management strategies but most paediatricians commonly engaged a school teacher, physiotherapist and/or psychologist as part of their management.

Conclusion

The diagnostic and management practices of paediatricians for CFS/ME within Australia vary widely. This likely reflects a paucity of paediatric-specific guidelines, together with limited evidence to guide best practice and limited training in this area. There is a need for guidance and education for the diagnosis and management of paediatric CFS/ME in Australia.

How is paediatric chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis diagnosed and managed by paediatricians? An Australian Paediatric Research Network Study, by Sarah Knight et al in Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health Volume 50, Issue 12, pages 1000–1007, December 2014 [Article first published online: 10 Jul 2014]