1
|
Hoffmann K, Hainzl A, Stingl M, Kurz K, Biesenbach B, Bammer C, Behrends U, Broxtermann W, Buchmayer F, Cavini AM, Fretz GS, Gole M, Grande B, Grande T, Habermann-Horstmeier L, Hackl V, Hamacher J, Hermisson J, King M, Kohl S, Leiss S, Litzlbauer D, Renz-Polster H, Ries W, Sagelsdorff J, Scheibenbogen C, Schieffer B, Schön L, Schreiner C, Thonhofer K, Strasser M, Weber T, Untersmayr E. [Interdisciplinary, collaborative D-A-CH (Germany, Austria and Switzerland) consensus statement concerning the diagnostic and treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome]. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2024; 136:103-123. [PMID: 38743348 PMCID: PMC11093804 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-024-02372-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a severe, chronic multisystemic disease which, depending on its severity, can lead to considerable physical and cognitive impairment, loss of ability to work and the need for nursing care including artificial nutrition and, in very severe cases, even death.The aim of this D-A-CH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) consensus statement is 1) to summarize the current state of knowledge on ME/CFS, 2) to highlight the Canadian Consensus Criteria (CCC) as clinical criteria for diagnostics with a focus on the leading symptom post-exertional malaise (PEM) and 3) to provide an overview of current options and possible future developments, particularly with regard to diagnostics and therapy. The D-A-CH consensus statement is intended to support physicians, therapists and valuer in diagnosing patients with suspected ME/CFS by means of adequate anamnesis and clinical-physical examinations as well as the recommended clinical CCC, using the questionnaires and other examination methods presented. The overview of the two pillars of therapy for ME/CFS, pacing and symptom-relieving therapy options, is intended not only to provide orientation for physicians and therapists, but also to support decision-makers from healthcare policy and insurance companies in determining which therapy options should already be reimbursable by them at this point in time for the indication ME/CFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Hoffmann
- Allgemeinmedizin, Public Health und Versorgungsforschung, Abteilung für Primary Care Medicine, Zentrum für Public Health, Medizinische Universität Wien, Kinderspitalgasse 15, 1090, Wien, Österreich.
| | - Astrid Hainzl
- Österreichische Gesellschaft für ME/CFS, Wien, Österreich
| | | | - Katharina Kurz
- Innere Medizin, Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin II, MedUni Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Beate Biesenbach
- Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde, kokon - Reha für junge Menschen, Kinder-Reha Rohrbach-Berg GmbH, Rohrbach-Berg, Österreich
| | - Christoph Bammer
- Innere Medizin, Nephrologie & Geriatrie, a. ö. BKH Kufstein, Kufstein, Österreich
| | - Uta Behrends
- MRI Chronische Fatigue Centrum für junge Menschen (MCFC), Zentrum für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin: eine Kooperation des Klinikums rechts der Isar, Technischen Universität München und der München Klinik gGmbH, München, Deutschland
| | | | - Florian Buchmayer
- Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Abteilung für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Krankenhaus der Barmherzigen Brüder, Eisenstadt, Österreich
| | - Anna Maria Cavini
- Fachärztin für Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde, Psychotherapeutische Medizin, St.Veit/Glan, Österreich
| | - Gregory Sacha Fretz
- Department Innere Medizin, Medizinische Poliklinik, Kantonsspital Graubünden, Loestraße 170, 7000, Chur, Schweiz
| | - Markus Gole
- Psychologie und Philosophie, Praxis für Psychologie, Philosophie und Berufskunde, Linz, Österreich
| | - Bettina Grande
- Psychotherapie und Psychoanalyse, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - Tilman Grande
- Psychotherapie und Psychoanalyse, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | | | - Verena Hackl
- Physiotherapie, AUVA Rehabilitationszentrum Meidling, Wien, Österreich
| | - Jürg Hamacher
- Innere Medizin und Pneumologie, Lindenhofspital, Bern, Schweiz
| | - Joachim Hermisson
- Biomathematik, Fakultät für Mathematik, Universität Wien, Wien, Österreich
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Max Perutz Labs, Wien, Österreich
| | - Martina King
- Lehrstuhl für Medical Humanities, Mathematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche und Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Fribourg, Fribourg, Schweiz
| | - Sonja Kohl
- #MillionsMissing Deutschland, Bedburg-Hau, Deutschland
| | - Sandra Leiss
- Österreichische Gesellschaft für ME/CFS, Wien, Österreich
| | | | - Herbert Renz-Polster
- Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde, Zentrum für Präventivmedizin und Digitale Gesundheit, Abteilung Allgemeinmedizin, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| | - Wolfgang Ries
- Nephrologie, Dialyse, DIAKO Krankenhaus gGmbH, Flensburg, Deutschland
| | | | - Carmen Scheibenbogen
- Institut für Med. Immunologie, Sektion Immundefekte und Postinfektiöse Erkrankungen, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Bernhard Schieffer
- Klinik für Innere Medizin-Kardiologie- Angiologie und Internistische Intensivmedizin und Zentrums für Notfallmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Gießen und Marburg GmbH, Standort Marburg, Marburg, Deutschland
| | - Lena Schön
- Physiotherapie, Physio Austria: Fachgruppe für komplexe Multisystemerkrankungen, Wien, Österreich
| | - Claudia Schreiner
- Österreichische Gesellschaft für ME/CFS, Wien, Österreich
- #MillionsMissing Deutschland, Bedburg-Hau, Deutschland
| | | | - Maja Strasser
- Neurologie, Neurologische Praxis Solothurn, Solothurn, Schweiz
| | - Thomas Weber
- Schmerzmedizin, Facharzt für Anästhesie und Intensivmedizin, Graz, Österreich
| | - Eva Untersmayr
- Klinische Immunologie, Institut für Pathophysiologie und Allergieforschung, Zentrum für Pathophysiologie, Infektiologie und Immunologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Wien, Österreich
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wright TJ, Pyles RB, Sheffield-Moore M, Deer RR, Randolph KM, McGovern KA, Danesi CP, Gilkison CR, Ward WW, Vargas JA, Armstrong PA, Lindsay SE, Zaidan MF, Seashore J, Wexler TL, Masel BE, Urban RJ. Low growth hormone secretion associated with post-acute sequelae SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) neurologic symptoms: A case-control pilot study. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 579:112071. [PMID: 37816478 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if patients that develop lingering neurologic symptoms of fatigue and "brain fog" after initial recovery from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have persistent low growth hormone (GH) secretion as seen in other conditions with similar symptom etiology. DESIGN In this case-control observational pilot study, patients reporting lingering neurologic post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC, n = 10) symptoms at least 6 months after initial infection were compared to patients that recovered from COVID-19 without lingering symptoms (non-PASC, n = 13). We compared basic blood chemistry and select metabolites, lipids, hormones, inflammatory markers, and vitamins between groups. PASC and non-PASC subjects were tested for neurocognition and GH secretion, and given questionnaires to assess symptom severity. PASC subjects were also tested for glucose tolerance and adrenal function. RESULTS PASC subjects reported significantly worse fatigue, sleep quality, depression, quality of life, and gastrointestinal discomfort compared to non-PASC. Although PASC subjects self-reported poor mental resilience, cognitive testing did not reveal significant differences between groups. Neurologic PASC symptoms were not linked to inflammatory markers or adrenal insufficiency, but were associated with reduced growth hormone secretion. CONCLUSIONS Neurologic PASC symptoms are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort and persistent disruption of GH secretion following recovery from acute COVID-19. (www. CLINICALTRIALS gov; NCT04860869).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Traver J Wright
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Richard B Pyles
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Melinda Sheffield-Moore
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Rachel R Deer
- Department of Nutrition, Metabolism, and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Kathleen M Randolph
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Kristen A McGovern
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Christopher P Danesi
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Charles R Gilkison
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Weston W Ward
- School of Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Jayson A Vargas
- School of Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Peyton A Armstrong
- School of Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Sarah E Lindsay
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Mohammed F Zaidan
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Justin Seashore
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA
| | - Tamara L Wexler
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, 10016, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, USA
| | - Brent E Masel
- Department of Neurology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA; Centre for Neuro Skills, Bakersfield, California, 93313, USA
| | - Randall J Urban
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yıldız BP, Hattatoğlu DG, Aydin C, Darçın G. Fatigue has a prominent impact on health lasting 12-weeks after COVID-19 infection. Malawi Med J 2023; 35:124-129. [PMID: 38264167 PMCID: PMC10731525 DOI: 10.4314/mmj.v35i2.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background While the amount of information on many issues related to COVID-19 has increased, the long-term consequences of illness and disability remain largely unclear. In previous studies on COVID-19 infections, long-lasting functional and symptomatic abnormalities have also been shown. It is predicted that survivors of COVID-19 may have to deal with physical or psychological problems later. Aim We aimed to evaluate long-lasting symptoms including fatigue and investigate the associated risk factors. Methods In this prospective cohort study, 132 consecutive COVID-19 patients who were previously diagnosed and admitted 13±1 weeks after diagnosis were included. The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) - Fatigue Scale, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) Scale were applied in the follow-up visit. Results The median age of the patients (76 male, 56 female) was 52. Eighty (61%) of the patients were hospitalized, while 52 (39%) of them were not hospitalized. At least one symptom persisted in 103 (78%) patients, with fatigue (n=48, 36%) being the most common symptom. Both dyspnea and fatigue were more prominent in women than in men (34% vs. 11%, p=0.001 and 46% vs 29%, p=0.03; respectively). Persisted symptoms including fatigue were not significantly associated with hospitalization status. The FACIT scores of the patients at 12 weeks were positively associated with their depression and anxiety levels (R: 0.55, p=0.0001 and R: 0.42, p=0.0001), while they were negatively associated with their IADL scores (R: -0.25, p=0.004). Conclusions Fatigue was the most frequent persistent symptom. The initial fatigue scores were higher in the severely ill patients. Persistent fatigue was not associated with disease severity but was closely associated with anxiety and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Birsen Pınar Yıldız
- University of Health Sciences, Yedikule Chest Disease and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Didem Görgün Hattatoğlu
- University of Health Sciences, Yedikule Chest Disease and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cihan Aydin
- Ahi Evran University Training and Research Hospital, Kirsehir, Turkey
| | - Gülnihal Darçın
- University of Health Sciences, Yedikule Chest Disease and Thoracic Surgery Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Diamond PR, Dysch L, Daniels J. Health anxiety in stroke survivors: a cross-sectional study on the prevalence of health anxiety in stroke survivors and its impact on quality of life. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:27-33. [PMID: 34990561 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.2022778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the prevalence of health anxiety in stroke survivors and its relative impact on quality of life. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional design was used including between group comparisons of high and low health anxious stroke survivors. Stroke survivors (n = 105) were recruited via online stroke community forums. Participants completed measures of health anxiety (Short Health Anxiety Inventory), general anxiety and depression (Hospital and Anxiety and Depression Scale), disability (WHO Disability Assessment Schedule), and quality of life (Quality of Life Index). Demographics and medical histories were also assessed. RESULTS Thirty percent of the sample scored above the clinical cut off for health anxiety. Stroke survivors with high health anxiety (HiHA) were found to have significantly lower quality of life (p < 0.001) and higher rates of depression (p < 0.001). Regression analysis found health anxiety to be a significant predictor of quality of life (β = -0.12; p < 0.05) in addition to levels of depression (β = -0.33; p < 0.001) and disability (β = -0.53; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Almost a third of stroke survivors were experiencing clinical levels of health anxiety, with HiHA significantly associated with lower quality of life. Future research should explore the use of existing evidence based psychological interventions for health anxiety in this population.Implications for rehabilitationOur findings suggest almost one in three stroke survivors residing in the community have clinical levels of health anxiety.High health anxiety in stroke survivors was significantly related to lower levels of quality of life.Given this finding, evidence-based treatments for health anxiety may improve quality of life and reduce distress for a significant proportion of stroke survivors.Rehabilitation approaches aimed at improving overall quality of life for stroke survivors should consider both physical and psychological interventions, with levels of physical disability, depression and anxiety all significantly associated with quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leon Dysch
- Community Neuro and Stroke Service, St Martins Hospital, Bath, UK
| | - Jo Daniels
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Psychological predictors of health anxiety and pain in ambulatory presentations in a hospital emergency department. Behav Cogn Psychother 2023; 51:11-20. [PMID: 36017708 DOI: 10.1017/s1352465822000352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health anxiety in attendees of out-patient medical clinics is well established; however, there has been a lack of research into health anxiety within emergency settings. AIMS This study explored the prevalence of health anxiety in ambulatory presentations in a tertiary emergency department (ED) as well as the factors associated with pain and health anxiety in this setting. METHOD A cross-sectional questionnaire design was used to gather data from adult ED ambulatory attendees across a 4-day sampling period to assess psychological and physical health variables. Number of attendances to ED over the previous 12 months was accessed through healthcare records. RESULTS Of the final sample (n = 106), 77% were white British, 54% were male, and 14% presented with severe health anxiety as measured by the Short Health Anxiety Inventory (≥18). Participants with pre-existing health conditions had significantly higher levels of health anxiety (M = 12.36, SE = 1.59) compared with those without (M = 7.79, SE = 0.66). Stepwise multiple regression analyses identified anxiety sensitivity and pain catastrophizing as significant independent predictors of health anxiety, explaining 51% of the variance in health anxiety. Pain catastrophizing was also a significant independent predictor of pain level, accounting for 20% of the variance. CONCLUSION This study provides insight into the prevalence of health anxiety in ED ambulatory presentations and key psychological predictors of health anxiety and pain. This has implications for treatment in an ED setting whereby patients may benefit from referral to medical psychology or mental health services.
Collapse
|
6
|
Generalized Worry in Patients With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Following Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Prospective Cohort Study in Secondary Care. Behav Ther 2022; 53:828-842. [PMID: 35987542 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Research has shown that generalized anxiety disorder is commonly associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). This prospective cohort study aimed to investigate the prevalence of generalized worry in CFS patients and its relationship with fatigue, anxiety and social functioning, before and after Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Our cohort consisted of 470 patients diagnosed with CFS who received CBT at a secondary care, specialist clinic. Patients completed self-report measures investigating levels of generalized worry, fatigue, work and social adjustment, anxiety and depression at baseline (pretreatment), discharge from treatment, 3-month and 6-month follow up (posttreatment). Analysis indicated a high prevalence of generalized worry (72.4%) at assessment. A significant reduction in worry following CBT (M = -3.42, p < .001, 95% CIs: 2.26, 4.57) was observed at discharge, which remained stable at follow-up. Severe baseline worriers had greater overall fatigue score (M = 3.74, p = .026, 95% CIs: .33, 7.15) and worse overall work and social adjustment than mild worriers across time-points (M = 5.42, p = .035 95% CIs: .27, 10.58). Avoidance behavior mediated the association between generalized worry and work and social adjustment (95% bootstrap CIs: 013, .080). The majority of patients with CFS had comorbid generalized worry and severe worriers reported greater fatigue, anxiety, and worse work and social adjustment. This suggests that CFS patients may benefit from targeting generalized worry during CBT.
Collapse
|
7
|
Daniels J, Rettie H. The Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Second Wave on Shielders and Their Family Members. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127333. [PMID: 35742580 PMCID: PMC9223363 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In March 2020, individuals shielding from coronavirus reported high rates of distress. This study investigated whether fear of contamination (FoC) and use of government-recommended behaviours (GRB; e.g., handwashing and wearing masks) were associated with psychological distress during February 2021. An online cross-sectional questionnaire assessed psychological distress in three groups (shielding self, shielding other/s, and control), and those shielding others also completed an adapted measure of health anxiety (α = 0.94). The sample (N = 723) was predominantly female (84%) with a mean age of 41.72 (SD = 15.15). Those shielding (self) demonstrated significantly higher rates of health anxiety and FoC in comparison to other groups (p < 0.001). The use of GRB was significantly lower in controls (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between the two shielding groups (p = 0.753). Rates of anxiety were higher when compared to March 2020 findings, except for controls. Hierarchical regressions indicated FoC and GRB accounted for 24% of variance in generalised anxiety (p < 0.001) and 28% in health anxiety, however, the latter was a non-significant predictor in final models. Those shielding themselves and others during the pandemic have experienced sustained levels of distress; special consideration must be given to those indirectly affected. Psychological interventions should account for realistic FoC and the impact of government-recommended health behaviours, as these factors are associated with distress in vulnerable groups and may extend beyond the pandemic. Future research should focus on longitudinal designs to monitor and better understand the clinical needs of those shielding, and those shielding others post-pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jo Daniels
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK;
- North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Hannah Rettie
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK;
- North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol BS10 5NB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nikitina AJ, Levin OS. [Chronic fatigue syndrome against the background of the COVID-19 pandemic]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2021; 121:92-98. [PMID: 34870921 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202112110292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The more we learn about the new coronavirus infection, the more we understand that we will feel the echoes of the pandemic for many years, and those who have successfully endured the acute phase of COVID-19 may face the consequences of the infection. One of the most frequent manifestations will be the development of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) after COVID-19. This article discusses the possible causes of the development of CFS, as well as possible ways of its treatment and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nikitina
- Russian Medical Academy of continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - O S Levin
- Russian Medical Academy of continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Deumer US, Varesi A, Floris V, Savioli G, Mantovani E, López-Carrasco P, Rosati GM, Prasad S, Ricevuti G. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS): An Overview. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10204786. [PMID: 34682909 PMCID: PMC8538807 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic systemic disease that manifests via various symptoms such as chronic fatigue, post-exertional malaise, and cognitive impairment described as “brain fog”. These symptoms often prevent patients from keeping up their pre-disease onset lifestyle, as extended periods of physical or mental activity become almost impossible. However, the disease presents heterogeneously with varying severity across patients. Therefore, consensus criteria have been designed to provide a diagnosis based on symptoms. To date, no biomarker-based tests or diagnoses are available, since the molecular changes observed also largely differ from patient to patient. In this review, we discuss the infectious, genetic, and hormonal components that may be involved in CFS pathogenesis, we scrutinize the role of gut microbiota in disease progression, we highlight the potential of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) for the development of diagnostic tools and briefly mention the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 infection causing CFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Undine-Sophie Deumer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Cologne, 50674 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Angelica Varesi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Almo Collegio Borromeo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.V.); (G.R.)
| | - Valentina Floris
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Gabriele Savioli
- Emergency Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Elisa Mantovani
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neurology Section, University of Verona, 37129 Verona, Italy;
| | - Paulina López-Carrasco
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 04510, Mexico;
| | | | - Sakshi Prasad
- National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, 21018 Vinnytsya, Ukraine;
| | - Giovanni Ricevuti
- School of Pharmacy, Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.V.); (G.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Haig-Ferguson A, Cooper K, Cartwright E, Loades M, Daniels J. Practitioner review: health anxiety in children and young people in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Behav Cogn Psychother 2021; 49:129-143. [PMID: 32829718 PMCID: PMC7503041 DOI: 10.1017/s1352465820000636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Health-related fear is a normal and common response in the face of the global pandemic of COVID-19. Children and young people are frequently being exposed to messages about the threat to health, including from the media and authorities. Whilst for most, their anxiety will be proportionate to the threat, for some, existing pre-occupation with physical symptoms and illness will become more problematic. There is a growing body of evidence that health anxiety may occur in childhood, however much of the literature is taken from research using adult samples. This practitioner review aims to give an overview of the assessment and treatment of health-related worries in children and young people in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This review is based on the limited existing evidence in this population and the more substantial evidence base for treating health anxiety in adults. We consider the adaptations needed to ensure such interventions are developmentally appropriate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - K. Cooper
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - E. Cartwright
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - M.E. Loades
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - J. Daniels
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Townsend L, Moloney D, Finucane C, McCarthy K, Bergin C, Bannan C, Kenny RA. Fatigue following COVID-19 infection is not associated with autonomic dysfunction. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247280. [PMID: 33630906 PMCID: PMC7906457 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The long-term clinical and physiological consequences of COVID-19 infection remain unclear. While fatigue has emerged as a common symptom following infection, little is known about its links with autonomic dysfunction. SARS-CoV-2 is known to infect endothelial cells in acute infection, resulting in autonomic dysfunction. Here we set out to test the hypothesis that this results in persistent autonomic dysfunction and is associated with post-COVID fatigue in convalescent patients. METHODS We recruited 20 fatigued and 20 non-fatigued post-COVID patients (median age 44.5 years, 36/40 (90%) female, median time to follow up 166.5 days). Fatigue was assessed using the Chalder Fatigue Scale. These underwent the Ewing's autonomic function test battery, including deep breathing, active standing, Valsalva manoeuvre and cold-pressor testing, with continuous electrocardiogram and blood pressure monitoring, as well as near-infrared spectroscopy-based cerebral oxygenation. 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was also conducted, and patients completed the generalised anxiety disorder-7 questionnaire. We assessed between-group differences in autonomic function test results and used unadjusted and adjusted linear regression to investigate the relationship between fatigue, anxiety, and autonomic test results. RESULTS We found no pathological differences between fatigued and non-fatigued patients on autonomic testing or on 24-hour blood pressure monitoring. Symptoms of orthostatic intolerance were reported by 70% of the fatigued cohort at the time of active standing, with no associated physiological abnormality detected. Fatigue was strongly associated with increased anxiety (p <0.001), with no patients having a pre-existing diagnosis of anxiety. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate the significant burden of fatigue, symptoms of autonomic dysfunction and anxiety in the aftermath of COVID-19 infection, but reassuringly do not demonstrate pathological findings on autonomic testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liam Townsend
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David Moloney
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Falls and Syncope Unit, Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciaran Finucane
- Falls and Syncope Unit, Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kevin McCarthy
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Falls and Syncope Unit, Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Colm Bergin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciaran Bannan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rose-Anne Kenny
- The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Falls and Syncope Unit, Mercer’s Institute for Successful Ageing, St James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
What are the barriers to the SHAI being completed within a ME/CFS service? COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR THERAPIST 2020. [DOI: 10.1017/s1754470x20000525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating condition, characterised by unexplained and excessive fatigue, muscle pain and sleep disturbances. Health anxiety is common in ME/CFS and accurate measurement is essential in facilitating therapeutic gains. However, there are clinical concerns over the utility of the Short Health Anxiety Inventory (SHAI) in measuring health anxiety in this population. This study aims to use qualitative responses from two ex-service users and specialist health clinicians to explore the barriers to completing the SHAI within a specialist ME/CFS service. Qualitative responses from a focus group consisting of 15 specialist health professionals including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, dieticians, cognitive behavioural therapists, counsellors, clinical psychologists and assistant psychologists were transcribed and analysed for themes. Patient voices were represented by two former service users through individual semi-structured interviews on the telephone, which were recorded, transcribed and later analysed thematically. Clinicians and service user involvement agreed on core difficulties with the utility of the SHAI in the ME/CFS population. The timing of the SHAI being administered pre-diagnosis, the language of the SHAI and lack of context around the questionnaire were identified as barriers that were likely to contribute to the SHAI not being completed by service users. Sensitive and accurate measurement is required in order to retain patient engagement, which could further facilitate appropriate assessment and treatment of health anxiety and ME/CFS. Findings suggest that adaption of the SHAI is vital for use with ME/CFS.
Key learning aims
(1)
To understand the different barriers to completing the SHAI in a ME/CFS service.
(2)
To understand the implications of administering the SHAI to ME/CFS service users.
(3)
To learn from multi-disciplinary ME/CFS health professionals about perceived difficulties in administering the SHAI.
Collapse
|
13
|
Brewer G, Stratton K. Living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome during lockdown and a global pandemic. FATIGUE: BIOMEDICINE, HEALTH & BEHAVIOR 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2020.1827503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Brewer
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - K. Stratton
- Department of Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|