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Hashimoto K, Takeuchi T, Murasaki M, Hiiragi M, Koyama A, Nakamura Y, Hashizume M. Psychosomatic symptoms related to exacerbation of fatigue in patients with medically unexplained symptoms. J Gen Fam Med 2023; 24:24-29. [PMID: 36605910 PMCID: PMC9808159 DOI: 10.1002/jgf2.582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) are common conditions that cause various somatic complaints and are often avoided in primary care. Fatigue frequently occurs in patients with MUS. However, the somatic and psychiatric symptoms associated with fatigue in patients with MUS are unknown. This study aimed to clarify the intensity of fatigue and the related somatic and psychiatric symptoms in patients with MUS. Methods A total of 120 patients with MUS aged 20-64 years who visited the Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Toho University Medical Center Omori Hospital, between January and March 2021 were considered. The participants' medical conditions were assessed using the Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS), Somatic Symptom Scale-8 (SSS-8), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). We estimated the relationship between CFS, SSS-8 and HADS by using Spearman's rank correlation. Additionally, linear multiple regression analysis with CFS as the objective variable was used to identify symptoms related to fatigue. Results Fatigue was significantly associated with all symptoms observed (p < 0.01). Linear multiple regression analysis revealed that "dizziness," "headache," and "Sleep medication" were extracted as relevant somatic symptoms (p < 0.05), independent of anxiety and depression, which were already known to be associated with fatigue in MUS. Conclusion The intensity of anxiety, depression, headache, and dizziness were all associated with the intensity of fatigue in MUS patients. On the contrary, sleeping medication was associated with lower levels of fatigue in MUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuaki Hashimoto
- Department of Psychosomatic MedicineToho University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Takeaki Takeuchi
- Department of Psychosomatic MedicineToho University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Maya Murasaki
- Department of Psychosomatic MedicineToho University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Miki Hiiragi
- Department of Psychosomatic MedicineToho University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Akiko Koyama
- Department of Psychosomatic MedicineToho University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Yuzo Nakamura
- Department of Psychosomatic MedicineToho University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Masahiro Hashizume
- Department of Psychosomatic MedicineToho University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
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Willis C, Chalder T. Concern for Covid-19 cough, fever and impact on mental health. What about risk of Somatic Symptom Disorder? J Ment Health 2021; 30:551-555. [PMID: 33522343 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2021.1875418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Willis
- Professor of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - T Chalder
- Professor of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
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O'Dowd H, Beasant L, Ingram J, Montgomery A, Hollingworth W, Gaunt D, Collin SM, Horne S, Jones B, Crawley E. The feasibility and acceptability of an early intervention in primary care to prevent chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in adults: randomised controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2020; 6:65. [PMID: 32426159 PMCID: PMC7216523 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-020-00595-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME)) is defined as fatigue that is disabling, is accompanied by additional symptoms and persists for ≥ 4 months. Treatment of CFS/ME aims to help patients manage their symptoms and make lifestyle adjustments. We do not know whether intervening early in primary care (< 4 months after onset of fatigue) can prevent the development of CFS/ME. Methods This was a feasibility randomised controlled trial with adults (age ≥ 18 years) comparing usual care with usual care plus an early intervention (EI; a combination of psycho-education and cognitive behavioural therapy, CBT). This study took place in fourteen primary care practices in Bristol, England and aimed to identify issues around recruitment and retention for a full-scale trial. It was not powered to support statistical analysis of differences in outcomes. Integrated qualitative methodology was used to explore the feasibility and acceptability of recruitment and randomisation to the intervention. Results Forty-four patients were recruited (1 August 2012–November 28, 2013), falling short of our predicted recruitment rate of 100 patients in 8 months. Qualitative data from GPs showed recruitment was not feasible because it was difficult to identify potential participants within 4 months of symptom onset. Some referring GPs felt screening investigations recommended by NICE were unnecessary, and they had difficulty finding patients who met the eligibility criteria. Qualitative data from some participant interviews suggested that the intervention was not acceptable in its current format. Although the majority of participants found parts of the intervention acceptable, many reported one or more problems with acceptability. Participants who discontinued the intervention or found it problematic did not relate to the therapeutic model, disliked telephone consultations or found self-reflection challenging. Conclusions A randomised controlled trial to test an early intervention for fatigue in adults in primary care is not feasible using this intervention and recruitment strategy. Trial registration International Standard Randomised Controlled Trials, ISRCTN72645894. Retrospectively registered on 17 May 2013
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazel O'Dowd
- 1CFS/NHS Bristol, The Lodge, Cossham Hospital, Lodge Road, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 1LF UK
| | - Lucy Beasant
- 2Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1NU UK
| | - Jenny Ingram
- 2Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1NU UK
| | - Alan Montgomery
- 3School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH UK
| | | | - Daisy Gaunt
- 4Bristol Randomised Trials Collaboration, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
| | - Simon M Collin
- 2Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1NU UK
| | - Sarah Horne
- 5CFS/NHS Bristol, Cossham Hospital, Bristol, BS15 1LF UK
| | - Beth Jones
- 5CFS/NHS Bristol, Cossham Hospital, Bristol, BS15 1LF UK
| | - Esther Crawley
- 2Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1NU UK
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Hulme K, Hudson JL, Rojczyk P, Little P, Moss-Morris R. Biopsychosocial risk factors of persistent fatigue after acute infection: A systematic review to inform interventions. J Psychosom Res 2017; 99:120-129. [PMID: 28712416 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2017.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fatigue is a prevalent and debilitating symptom, preceded by an acute infectious episode in some patients. This systematic review aimed to identify risk factors for the development of persistent fatigue after an acute infection, to develop an evidence-based working model of post-infectious fatigue. METHODS Electronic databases (Medline, PsycINFO and EMBASE) were searched, from inception to March 2016, for studies which investigated biopsychosocial risk factors of on-going fatigue after an acute infection. Inclusion criteria were: prospective design; biological, psychological or social risk factors; standardised measure of post-infectious fatigue (self-report scales or clinical diagnosis). Studies were excluded if the sample had a pre-existing medical condition, infection was conceptualised as 'vaccination' or they were intervention trials. A narrative synthesis was performed. RESULTS Eighty-one full texts were screened, of which seventeen were included in the review. Over half included glandular fever populations. Other infections included dengue fever, 'general'/'viral' and Q-fever. Risk factors were summarised under biological, social, behavioural, cognitive and emotional subthemes. Patients' cognitive and behavioural responses to the acute illness, and pre-infection or baseline distress and fatigue were the most consistent risk factors for post-infectious fatigue. CONCLUSION An empirical summary model is provided, highlighting the risk factors most consistently associated with persistent fatigue. The components of the model, the possible interaction of risk factors and implications for understanding the fatigue trajectory and informing preventative treatments are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Hulme
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK; Health Psychology Department, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.
| | - Joanna L Hudson
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK.
| | - Philine Rojczyk
- Psychology Department, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden University, Netherlands.
| | - Paul Little
- Primary Care and Population Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
| | - Rona Moss-Morris
- Health Psychology Section, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK.
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Posadzki P, Mastellos N, Ryan R, Gunn LH, Felix LM, Pappas Y, Gagnon M, Julious SA, Xiang L, Oldenburg B, Car J. Automated telephone communication systems for preventive healthcare and management of long-term conditions. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2016; 12:CD009921. [PMID: 27960229 PMCID: PMC6463821 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009921.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Automated telephone communication systems (ATCS) can deliver voice messages and collect health-related information from patients using either their telephone's touch-tone keypad or voice recognition software. ATCS can supplement or replace telephone contact between health professionals and patients. There are four different types of ATCS: unidirectional (one-way, non-interactive voice communication), interactive voice response (IVR) systems, ATCS with additional functions such as access to an expert to request advice (ATCS Plus) and multimodal ATCS, where the calls are delivered as part of a multicomponent intervention. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of ATCS for preventing disease and managing long-term conditions on behavioural change, clinical, process, cognitive, patient-centred and adverse outcomes. SEARCH METHODS We searched 10 electronic databases (the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials; MEDLINE; Embase; PsycINFO; CINAHL; Global Health; WHOLIS; LILACS; Web of Science; and ASSIA); three grey literature sources (Dissertation Abstracts, Index to Theses, Australasian Digital Theses); and two trial registries (www.controlled-trials.com; www.clinicaltrials.gov) for papers published between 1980 and June 2015. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised, cluster- and quasi-randomised trials, interrupted time series and controlled before-and-after studies comparing ATCS interventions, with any control or another ATCS type were eligible for inclusion. Studies in all settings, for all consumers/carers, in any preventive healthcare or long term condition management role were eligible. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methods to select and extract data and to appraise eligible studies. MAIN RESULTS We included 132 trials (N = 4,669,689). Studies spanned across several clinical areas, assessing many comparisons based on evaluation of different ATCS types and variable comparison groups. Forty-one studies evaluated ATCS for delivering preventive healthcare, 84 for managing long-term conditions, and seven studies for appointment reminders. We downgraded our certainty in the evidence primarily because of the risk of bias for many outcomes. We judged the risk of bias arising from allocation processes to be low for just over half the studies and unclear for the remainder. We considered most studies to be at unclear risk of performance or detection bias due to blinding, while only 16% of studies were at low risk. We generally judged the risk of bias due to missing data and selective outcome reporting to be unclear.For preventive healthcare, ATCS (ATCS Plus, IVR, unidirectional) probably increase immunisation uptake in children (risk ratio (RR) 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.18 to 1.32; 5 studies, N = 10,454; moderate certainty) and to a lesser extent in adolescents (RR 1.06, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.11; 2 studies, N = 5725; moderate certainty). The effects of ATCS in adults are unclear (RR 2.18, 95% CI 0.53 to 9.02; 2 studies, N = 1743; very low certainty).For screening, multimodal ATCS increase uptake of screening for breast cancer (RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.55 to 3.04; 2 studies, N = 462; high certainty) and colorectal cancer (CRC) (RR 2.19, 95% CI 1.88 to 2.55; 3 studies, N = 1013; high certainty) versus usual care. It may also increase osteoporosis screening. ATCS Plus interventions probably slightly increase cervical cancer screening (moderate certainty), but effects on osteoporosis screening are uncertain. IVR systems probably increase CRC screening at 6 months (RR 1.36, 95% CI 1.25 to 1.48; 2 studies, N = 16,915; moderate certainty) but not at 9 to 12 months, with probably little or no effect of IVR (RR 1.05, 95% CI 0.99, 1.11; 2 studies, 2599 participants; moderate certainty) or unidirectional ATCS on breast cancer screening.Appointment reminders delivered through IVR or unidirectional ATCS may improve attendance rates compared with no calls (low certainty). For long-term management, medication or laboratory test adherence provided the most general evidence across conditions (25 studies, data not combined). Multimodal ATCS versus usual care showed conflicting effects (positive and uncertain) on medication adherence. ATCS Plus probably slightly (versus control; moderate certainty) or probably (versus usual care; moderate certainty) improves medication adherence but may have little effect on adherence to tests (versus control). IVR probably slightly improves medication adherence versus control (moderate certainty). Compared with usual care, IVR probably improves test adherence and slightly increases medication adherence up to six months but has little or no effect at longer time points (moderate certainty). Unidirectional ATCS, compared with control, may have little effect or slightly improve medication adherence (low certainty). The evidence suggested little or no consistent effect of any ATCS type on clinical outcomes (blood pressure control, blood lipids, asthma control, therapeutic coverage) related to adherence, but only a small number of studies contributed clinical outcome data.The above results focus on areas with the most general findings across conditions. In condition-specific areas, the effects of ATCS varied, including by the type of ATCS intervention in use.Multimodal ATCS probably decrease both cancer pain and chronic pain as well as depression (moderate certainty), but other ATCS types were less effective. Depending on the type of intervention, ATCS may have small effects on outcomes for physical activity, weight management, alcohol consumption, and diabetes mellitus. ATCS have little or no effect on outcomes related to heart failure, hypertension, mental health or smoking cessation, and there is insufficient evidence to determine their effects for preventing alcohol/substance misuse or managing illicit drug addiction, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, HIV/AIDS, hypercholesterolaemia, obstructive sleep apnoea, spinal cord dysfunction or psychological stress in carers.Only four trials (3%) reported adverse events, and it was unclear whether these were related to the interventions. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS ATCS interventions can change patients' health behaviours, improve clinical outcomes and increase healthcare uptake with positive effects in several important areas including immunisation, screening, appointment attendance, and adherence to medications or tests. The decision to integrate ATCS interventions in routine healthcare delivery should reflect variations in the certainty of the evidence available and the size of effects across different conditions, together with the varied nature of ATCS interventions assessed. Future research should investigate both the content of ATCS interventions and the mode of delivery; users' experiences, particularly with regard to acceptability; and clarify which ATCS types are most effective and cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Posadzki
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological UniversityCentre for Population Health Sciences (CePHaS)3 Fusionopolis Link, #06‐13Nexus@one‐northSingaporeSingapore138543
| | - Nikolaos Mastellos
- Imperial College LondonGlobal eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public HealthSt Dunstans RoadLondonHammersmithUKW6 8RP
| | - Rebecca Ryan
- La Trobe UniversityCentre for Health Communication and Participation, School of Psychology and Public HealthBundooraVICAustralia3086
| | - Laura H Gunn
- Stetson UniversityPublic Health Program421 N Woodland BlvdDeLandFloridaUSA32723
| | - Lambert M Felix
- Edge Hill UniversityFaculty of Health and Social CareSt Helens RoadOrmskirkLancashireUKL39 4QP
| | - Yannis Pappas
- University of BedfordshireInstitute for Health ResearchPark SquareLutonBedfordUKLU1 3JU
| | - Marie‐Pierre Gagnon
- Traumatologie – Urgence – Soins IntensifsCentre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Axe Santé des populations ‐ Pratiques optimales en santé10 Rue de l'Espinay, D6‐727QuébecQCCanadaG1L 3L5
| | - Steven A Julious
- University of SheffieldMedical Statistics Group, School of Health and Related ResearchRegent Court, 30 Regent StreetSheffieldUKS1 4DA
| | - Liming Xiang
- Nanyang Technological UniversityDivision of Mathematical Sciences, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences21 Nanyang LinkSingaporeSingapore
| | - Brian Oldenburg
- University of MelbourneMelbourne School of Population and Global HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Josip Car
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological UniversityCentre for Population Health Sciences (CePHaS)3 Fusionopolis Link, #06‐13Nexus@one‐northSingaporeSingapore138543
- Imperial College LondonGlobal eHealth Unit, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public HealthSt Dunstans RoadLondonHammersmithUKW6 8RP
- University of LjubljanaDepartment of Family Medicine, Faculty of MedicineLjubljanaSlovenia
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Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a poorly understood condition that presents as long-term physical and mental fatigue with associated symptoms of pain and sensitivity across a broad range of systems in the body. The poor understanding of the disorder comes from the varying clinical diagnostic definitions as well as the broad array of body systems from which its symptoms present. Studies on metabolism and CFS suggest irregularities in energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, nucleotide metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, hormone metabolism, and oxidative stress metabolism. The overwhelming body of evidence suggests an oxidative environment with the minimal utilization of mitochondria for efficient energy production. This is coupled with a reduced excretion of amino acids and nitrogen in general. Metabolomics is a developing field that studies metabolism within a living system under varying conditions of stimuli. Through its development, there has been the optimisation of techniques to do large-scale hypothesis-generating untargeted studies as well as hypothesis-testing targeted studies. These techniques are introduced and show an important future direction for research into complex illnesses such as CFS.
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Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is an illness characterized by disabling fatigue of at least 6 months. The aetiology of the condition has been hotly debated. In this chapter the evidence for CFS as a post viral condition and/or a neurological condition is reviewed. Although there is evidence that CFS is triggered by certain viruses in some patients and that neurobiological changes such as hypocortisolism are associated with the syndrome, neither mechanism is sufficient to explain the extent of the symptoms or disability experienced by patients. It is unlikely that CFS can be understood through one aetiological mechanisms. Rather it is a complex illness which is best explained in terms of a multifactorial cognitive behavioural model. This model proposes that CFS is precipitated by life events and/or viral illness in vulnerable individuals, such as those who are genetically predisposed, prone to distress, high achievement, and over or under activity. A self perpetuating cycle where physiological changes, illness beliefs, reduced and inconsistent activity, sleep disturbance, medical uncertainty and lack of guidance interact to maintain symptoms. Treatments based on this model including cognitive behavioural therapy and graded exercise therapy are effective at significantly reducing fatigue and disability in CFS. This chapter provides a description of these approaches and details of the trials conducted in the area.
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The common immunogenic etiology of chronic fatigue syndrome: from infections to vaccines via adjuvants to the ASIA syndrome. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2011; 25:851-63. [PMID: 22054760 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2011.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by unexplained fatigue that lasts for at least 6 months with a constellation of other symptoms. Most cases start suddenly, and are usually accompanied by a flu-like illness. It is a symptom-based diagnosis of exclusion, the pathogenesis of which is unknown. Studies have examined and hypothesized about the possible biomedical and epidemiologic characteristics of the disease, including genetic predisposition, infections, endocrine abnormalities, and immune dysfunction and psychological and psychosocial factors. Recently, the AISA (autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants) syndrome was recognized, indicating the possible contribution of adjuvants and vaccines to the development of autoimmunity.
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Koopmans PC, Bakhtali R, Katan AA, Groothoff JW, Roelen CAM. Return to work following sickness absence due to infectious mononucleosis. Occup Med (Lond) 2011; 60:249-54. [PMID: 20511265 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqq061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epstein-Barr virus infectious mononucleosis among adults is notorious because of the prolonged incapacitating fatigue it causes. AIMS To investigate the duration of sickness absence and return to work following infectious mononucleosis. METHODS Episodes of sickness absence due to infectious mononucleosis were selected from an occupational health services register. The duration of sickness absence and return to work was assessed with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. RESULTS Two thousand one hundred and thirty-seven episodes of absence due to infectious mononucleosis had a median duration of 91 days. Young employees (aged 15-24 years) had the highest return to work rates. Women had longer sickness absence than men. Employees working in small companies were absent longer than employees in large companies. CONCLUSIONS Occupational physicians should advise gradual return to work, starting 4 weeks after the onset of the illness, in order to prevent physical deconditioning and prolonged illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Koopmans
- ArboNed Occupational Health Services, Statistics, Paterswoldseweg 808, PO Box 141, 9700 AC Groningen, The Netherlands.
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10
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Moss-Morris R, Spence MJ, Hou R. The pathway from glandular fever to chronic fatigue syndrome: can the cognitive behavioural model provide the map? Psychol Med 2011; 41:1099-1107. [PMID: 20663256 DOI: 10.1017/s003329171000139x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cognitive behavioural model of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) suggests that the illness is caused through reciprocal interactions between physiology, cognition, emotion and behaviour. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the psychological factors operationalized in this model could predict the onset of CFS following an acute episode of infectious mononucleosis commonly known as glandular fever (GF). METHOD A total of 246 patients with GF were recruited into this prospective cohort study. Standardized self-report measures of perceived stress, perfectionism, somatization, mood, illness beliefs and behaviour were completed at the time of their acute illness. Follow-up questionnaires determined the incidence of new-onset chronic fatigue (CF) at 3 months and CFS at 6 months post-infection. RESULTS Of the participants, 9.4% met the criteria for CF at 3 months and 7.8% met the criteria for CFS at 6 months. Logistic regression revealed that factors proposed to predispose people to CFS including anxiety, depression, somatization and perfectionism were associated with new-onset CFS. Negative illness beliefs including perceiving GF to be a serious, distressing condition, that will last a long time and is uncontrollable, and responding to symptoms in an all-or-nothing behavioural pattern were also significant predictors. All-or-nothing behaviour was the most significant predictor of CFS at 6 months. Perceived stress and consistently limiting activity at the time of GF were not significantly associated with CFS. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study provide support for the cognitive behavioural model and a good basis for developing prevention and early intervention strategies for CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Moss-Morris
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, UK.
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11
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Chalder T. Chronic fatigue syndrome: Focus on the provider of care rather than the consumer. J Ment Health 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/09638230500136522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Cartwright T, Endean N, Porter A. Illness perceptions, coping and quality of life in patients with alopecia. Br J Dermatol 2009; 160:1034-9. [PMID: 19183424 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.09014.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alopecia can have substantial psychological consequences, but there has been no research looking at patients' beliefs about their condition nor how they relate to quality of life (QoL). OBJECTIVES To investigate the relationships between illness perceptions, coping and QoL in patients with alopecia. METHODS The study employed a cross-sectional design. In total, 214 individuals with alopecia were recruited from four internet support groups. There were 171 women and 43 men (mean age 35 years). Participants completed an online questionnaire comprising the Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire, the Dermatology Life Quality Index and the brief COPE. RESULTS The findings indicate several areas in which alopecia impacted on individuals' QoL, particularly in relation to symptoms and feelings. Women reported poorer QoL compared with men. Impaired QoL was associated with a strong illness identity, beliefs in the serious consequences of alopecia and strong emotional representations. Hierarchical multiple regressions indicated that illness perceptions accounted for 35% of the variance in QoL after controlling for demographic and disease factors, with coping adding a further 7% to the regression model. CONCLUSIONS Although alopecia is not a life-threatening condition, it can impair QoL by negatively impacting on self-awareness. The strong relationships found between patients' beliefs about their condition and QoL suggests that health professionals should recognize the psychological impact of alopecia and address negative beliefs and emotions surrounding the condition in treatment programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Cartwright
- Department of Psychology, University of Westminster, London W1B 2UW, UK.
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Price JR, Mitchell E, Tidy E, Hunot V. Cognitive behaviour therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2008; 2008:CD001027. [PMID: 18646067 PMCID: PMC7028002 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd001027.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a common, debilitating and serious health problem. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) may help to alleviate the symptoms of CFS. OBJECTIVES To examine the effectiveness and acceptability of CBT for CFS, alone and in combination with other interventions, compared with usual care and other interventions. SEARCH STRATEGY CCDANCTR-Studies and CCDANCTR-References were searched on 28/3/2008. We conducted supplementary searches of other bibliographic databases. We searched reference lists of retrieved articles and contacted trial authors and experts in the field for information on ongoing/completed trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials involving adults with a primary diagnosis of CFS, assigned to a CBT condition compared with usual care or another intervention, alone or in combination. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data on patients, interventions and outcomes were extracted by two review authors independently, and risk of bias was assessed for each study. The primary outcome was reduction in fatigue severity, based on a continuous measure of symptom reduction, using the standardised mean difference (SMD), or a dichotomous measure of clinical response, using odds ratios (OR), with 95% confidence intervals (CI). MAIN RESULTS Fifteen studies (1043 CFS participants) were included in the review. When comparing CBT with usual care (six studies, 373 participants), the difference in fatigue mean scores at post-treatment was highly significant in favour of CBT (SMD -0.39, 95% CI -0.60 to -0.19), with 40% of CBT participants (four studies, 371 participants) showing clinical response in contrast with 26% in usual care (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.76). Findings at follow-up were inconsistent. For CBT versus other psychological therapies, comprising relaxation, counselling and education/support (four studies, 313 participants), the difference in fatigue mean scores at post-treatment favoured CBT (SMD -0.43, 95% CI -0.65 to -0.20). Findings at follow-up were heterogeneous and inconsistent. Only two studies compared CBT against other interventions and one study compared CBT in combination with other interventions against usual care. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS CBT is effective in reducing the symptoms of fatigue at post-treatment compared with usual care, and may be more effective in reducing fatigue symptoms compared with other psychological therapies. The evidence base at follow-up is limited to a small group of studies with inconsistent findings. There is a lack of evidence on the comparative effectiveness of CBT alone or in combination with other treatments, and further studies are required to inform the development of effective treatment programmes for people with CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R Price
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK, OX3 7JX.
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14
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the etiology of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and test hypotheses relating to immune system dysfunction, physical deconditioning, exercise avoidance, and childhood illness experiences, using a large prospective birth cohort. METHODS A total of 4779 participants from the Medical Research Council's National Survey of Health and Development were prospectively followed for the first 53 years of their life with >20 separate data collections. Information was collected on childhood and parental health, atopic illness, levels of physical activity, fatigue, and participant's weight and height at multiple time points. CFS was identified through self-report during a semistructured interview at age 53 years with additional case notes review. RESULTS Of 2983 participants assessed at age 53 years, 34 (1.1%, 95% Confidence Interval 0.8-1.5) reported a diagnosis of CFS. Those who reported CFS were no more likely to have suffered from childhood illness or atopy. Increased levels of exercise throughout childhood and early adult life and a lower body mass index were associated with an increased risk of later CFS. Participants who later reported CFS continued to exercise more frequently even after they began to experience early symptoms of fatigue. CONCLUSIONS Individuals who exercise frequently are more likely to report a diagnosis of CFS in later life. This may be due to the direct effects of this behavior or associated personality factors. Continuing to be active despite increasing fatigue may be a crucial step in the development of CFS.
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Deary V, Chalder T, Sharpe M. The cognitive behavioural model of medically unexplained symptoms: A theoretical and empirical review. Clin Psychol Rev 2007; 27:781-97. [PMID: 17822818 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2007.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 292] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2006] [Revised: 06/21/2006] [Accepted: 07/13/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The article is a narrative review of the theoretical standing and empirical evidence for the cognitive behavioural model of medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) in general and for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in particular. A literature search of Medline and Psychinfo from 1966 to the present day was conducted using MUS and related terms as search terms. All relevant articles were reviewed. The search was then limited in stages, by cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), condition, treatment and type of trial. Evidence was found for genetic, neurological, psychophysiological, immunological, personality, attentional, attributional, affective, behavioural, social and inter-personal factors in the onset and maintenance of MUS. The evidence for the contribution of individual factors, and their autopoietic interaction in MUS (as hypothesised by the cognitive behavioural model) is examined. The evidence from the treatment trials of cognitive behavioural therapy for MUS, CFS and IBS is reviewed as an experimental test of the cognitive behavioural models. We conclude that a broadly conceptualized cognitive behavioural model of MUS suggests a novel and plausible mechanism of symptom generation and has heuristic value. We offer suggestions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Deary
- Institute of Health and Society, University of Newcastle, 21 Claremont Place, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE2 4AA, UK.
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16
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Llewellyn CD, McGurk M, Weinman J. Illness and treatment beliefs in head and neck cancer: is Leventhal's common sense model a useful framework for determining changes in outcomes over time? J Psychosom Res 2007; 63:17-26. [PMID: 17586334 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2007.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2006] [Revised: 01/16/2007] [Accepted: 01/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The main aim of this prospective study was to examine the utility of Leventhal's common sense model in predicting longitudinal judgement-based outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). The study is of potential importance as it focuses on the relations between personality factors, coping styles, informational needs, illness representations, and outcomes using a longitudinal study design. This has particular value as the trend in similar research is to focus on concurrent relations between variables. In addition, the prediction of numerous outcomes from illness perceptions has received relatively scant attention in the field of HNC. METHODS Fifty patients completed the following measures prior to treatment, 1 month and 6-8 months after treatment: IPQ-R, BMQ, Brief COPE, LOT-R, SCIP, EORTC QLQ-C30, SF-12, Patient Generated Index (PGI), and HADS. RESULTS Baseline illness and treatment beliefs were not predictive of HR-QoL, individualized QoL, or anxiety 6-8 months after treatment; however, beliefs about the chronicity of the disease (timeline beliefs) were predictive of depression after treatment. Coping strategies employed and levels of satisfaction with information before treatment were significant predictors of several outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that a common sense model may be a useful framework for eliciting and understanding patients' beliefs regarding HNC; however, there are concerns regarding the use of a 'dynamic' model to predict longitudinal outcomes from baseline factors that may change over the course of an illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Diane Llewellyn
- Health Psychology Section, Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry (Guy's Campus) King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
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17
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Curran J, Brooker C. Systematic review of interventions delivered by UK mental health nurses. Int J Nurs Stud 2007; 44:479-509. [PMID: 17241635 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2006.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2006] [Revised: 11/05/2006] [Accepted: 11/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The effectiveness of mental health nurse interventions has not been generally established in the literature. In this systematic review, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified, undertaken in the United Kingdom, where mental health interventions delivered by mental health nurses had been evaluated. The main online literature databases were searched, key journals were hand searched and contact was made with key authors, resulting in a total of 52 studies, involving at least 7172 service users. Data were extracted and then all identified trials were assessed for inclusion by two reviewers. The results showed that in the UK, mental health nurses are involved in the delivery of a wide range of interventions in a variety of clinical health settings, with broadly positive results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Curran
- Department of Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapies, Michael Carlisle Centre, Sheffield, UK.
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18
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Behavioral medicine is an interdisciplinary field, integrating research from a variety of disciplines. This review focuses on recent advances and developments in behavioral medicine. RECENT FINDINGS Stress, as well as having a role in the etiology and maintenance of somatic disease and somatoform disorders, is an important factor in the behavioral medicine literature. Consequentially, recent advances in psychological interventions targeting these conditions were developed. Furthermore, a variety of psychobiological mechanistic studies investigating the dysregulations of stress axes in conditions relevant to behavioral medicine have been undertaken. SUMMARY Studies investigating factors and processes relevant to health and illness clearly demonstrate the impact of psychosocial factors such as stress. The biopsychosocial perspective becomes increasingly sophisticated, focusing on specific disease processes and empirically tested and effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urs M Nater
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.
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19
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Petersen I, Thomas JM, Hamilton WT, White PD. Risk and predictors of fatigue after infectious mononucleosis in a large primary-care cohort. QJM 2006; 99:49-55. [PMID: 16330509 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hci149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatigue has been found to complicate infectious mononucleosis (IM) when patients are directly asked about it. We do not know whether such fatigue is clinically significant, nor whether IM is a specific risk for fatigue (or whether it can follow other common infections). Various risk markers for post-infectious fatigue have been identified, but findings are inconsistent. AIM To determine the risk of clinically reported fatigue (compared with depression) after IM (compared with both influenza and tonsillitis) in patients attending primary care, and to examine risk markers for post-IM fatigue. DESIGN Comparison of matched primary-care cohorts. METHODS We identified 1438 adult patients with a positive heterophil antibody test for IM from the UK General Practice Research Database. These patients were individually matched on age, sex and practice to two comparison groups; one with a clinical diagnosis of influenza and the other of tonsillitis. RESULTS The odds ratios (ORs) (95%CI) for reported fatigue after IM vs. influenza and tonsillitis were 4.4 (2.9-6.9) and 6.6 (4.2-10.4), respectively. Risk markers for post-IM fatigue included female sex and premorbid mood disorder. By comparison, the ORs for depression after IM vs. influenza and tonsillitis were 1.6 (0.9-2.6) and 2.3 (1.4-3.9), respectively. DISCUSSION IM is a specific and significant risk for clinically reported fatigue, which is both separate from, and more common than, depression. Female sex and premorbid mood disorder are risk markers for fatigue. These can be used both to target prevention strategies and to explore aetiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Petersen
- Centre for Psychiatry, Barts and The London, Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry, UK
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21
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Candy B, Chalder T, Cleare AJ, Wessely S, Hotopf M. What advice do patients with infectious mononucleosis report being given by their general practitioner? J Psychosom Res 2005; 58:435-7. [PMID: 16026659 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2004.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2004] [Accepted: 11/16/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the advice that patients with acute infectious mononucleosis recall having been given by their general practitioner (GP; family or primary care doctor). METHODS Individuals with a recent diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis were recruited for a randomised controlled trial assessing the effectiveness of a brief educational intervention on recovery. All participants were asked at their initial assessment what advice that they had been given by their GP. They were not given any prompts and were free to give several responses. Responses were grouped into various themes. RESULTS Seventy-one patients took part. Of these, 11 (15%) recalled being given no specific advice. Of the remaining 60 participants, 70% recalled being given advice to rest, or to "take it easy", usually without any qualification; 10% recalled being given dietary advice, and 17% advice on simple symptom management. CONCLUSION The majority of individuals with recent onset infectious mononucleosis recall being given advice to rest by their GPs. This finding is discussed in relation to evidence suggesting that rest may be unhelpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Candy
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Weston Education Centre, London, UK
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22
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Cho HJ, Hotopf M, Wessely S. The placebo response in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychosom Med 2005; 67:301-13. [PMID: 15784798 DOI: 10.1097/01.psy.0000156969.76986.e0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The placebo response is conventionally asserted to be high in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) because of the latter's subjective nature and obscure pathogenesis, but no systematic review of placebo responses has been undertaken. We report such a study. Patient expectation is known to be important in the placebo response. It is also known that CFS patients attending specialist clinics often have strong physical attributions regarding causation and hence skepticism about psychological or psychiatric interventions. If so, the placebo response in CFS may be influenced by the type of intervention according to its perceived rationale. We aimed to estimate the summary placebo response in clinical trials of CFS and to determine whether intervention type influences the placebo response in CFS. METHODS We searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, PsychInfo, and the references of the identified articles, and contacted experts for controlled trials (randomized or nonrandomized) of any intervention on CFS patients reporting the placebo response as a clinical improvement in physical or general outcomes. Data were extracted from the articles and validity assessment conducted by one reviewer and checked by a second. Meta-analysis and metaregression were performed. RESULTS The pooled placebo response was 19.6% (95% confidence interval, 15.4-23.7), lower than predicted and lower than in some other medical conditions. The meta-regression revealed that intervention type significantly contributed to the heterogeneity of placebo response (p = .03). CONCLUSION In contrast with the conventional wisdom, the placebo response in CFS is low. Psychological-psychiatric interventions were shown to have a lower placebo response, perhaps linked to patient expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyong Jin Cho
- Section of General Hospital Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, United Kingdom.
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