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Habermann-Horstmeier L, Horstmeier LM. [Systems thinking, subjective findings and diagnostic "pigeonholing" in ME/CFS: A mainly qualitative public health study from a patient perspective]. Dtsch Med Wochenschr 2024; 149:e19-e36. [PMID: 38096913 PMCID: PMC10824585 DOI: 10.1055/a-2197-6479] [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] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ME/CFS (Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) is an illness that is predominantly viewed as a neuroimmunological multisystem disease, which is still unknown to many doctors in Germany or which they classify as a psychosomatic disease. From their perspective, ME/CFS patients report significant deficits in terms of medical treatment and a doctor-patient relationship (DP relationship) that is perceived as problematic. The aim of the present study is to more precisely analyse the process of finding a diagnosis as an influencing factor on the DP relationship in ME/CFS from the point of view of those affected. METHOD As part of an explorative qualitative survey, 544 ME/CFS patients (> 20 years; 455 ♀, 89 ♂) with a medical diagnosis of ME/CFS were asked in writing about their experiences with regard to the process of finding a diagnosis. The sampling was previously done by self-activation and via the snowball principle. The questionnaire to be answered was structured analogously to a focused, standardized guideline interview. The evaluation was carried out as part of a qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. Some of the results were subsequently quantified. RESULTS The participants described what they saw as the inadequate process of making a diagnosis as a central factor in a problematic DP relationship in ME/CFS. From their point of view, many doctors deny the existence of ME/CFS or classify it as a solely psychosomatic illness, insist on their level of knowledge, ignore patient knowledge and disregard scientific information provided. They follow the standard program, think in "pigeonholes" and are incapable of systemic thinking. This has a significant impact on the DP relationship. DISCUSSION From the point of view of ME/CFS patients, the process of making a diagnosis and the recognition of ME/CFS as a neuroimmunological multisystem disease are the central aspects of a DP relationship that they experience as problematic. In the past, findings classified as "subjective" and thus ignored, the pigeonholing that is characteristic of biomedically oriented medicine and a healthcare system that opposes systemic thinking when making a diagnosis have all been identified as factors that may have a significant impact on the DP relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lukas Maximilian Horstmeier
- Sektion für Versorgungsforschung und Rehabilitationsforschung, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, GERMANY,
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Habermann-Horstmeier L, Horstmeier LM. [Implications of the quality of the doctor-patient relationship on health in adult ME/CFS patients. A qualitative public health study from a patien perspective]. MMW Fortschr Med 2023; 165:16-27. [PMID: 38062324 DOI: 10.1007/s15006-023-2894-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are dissatisfied with medical care. They complain about e. g. the lack of medical recognition of ME/CFS as a neuroimmunological disease and the medical perception of those affected as "difficult patients". METHOD As part of an exploratory qualitative survey, 544 medically diagnosed ME/CFS patients (> 20 years; 455 ♀, 89 ♂) were asked about their subjective experiences with regard to the doctor-patient relationships (DP relationship) to their treating physicians. The questionnaire was structured analogously to a focused, standardized guideline interview. The written answers were evaluated using a qualitative content analysis according to Mayring. RESULTS The participants reported a significant deterioration in their health situation and their quality of life as a result of misdiagnoses and incorrect treatments, the strained DP relationship and the lack of support from the physicians. All of this leads to fear of visiting the doctor, a general loss of trust in physicians, a feeling of helplessness up to bitterness and resignation - with suicide as the last mental option for some patients to escape from this precarious situation. During medical consultations, other participants only addressed health problems that were not related to ME/CFS, or only went to the doctor in an emergency, or refrained from contacting doctors entirely. CONCLUSIONS The DP relationship described by the participants as problematic in their opinion has significant negative health consequences for them. It is therefore of great urgency to develop a patient-centred treatment concept that focuses on ME/CFS patients as experts on their own illness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lukas M Horstmeier
- Sektion für Versorgungsforschung und Rehabilitationsforschung, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Freiburg, Deutschland
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Hwang JH, Lee JS, Oh HM, Lee EJ, Lim EJ, Son CG. Evaluation of viral infection as an etiology of ME/CFS: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Transl Med 2023; 21:763. [PMID: 37898798 PMCID: PMC10612276 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04635-0] [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] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myalgic encephalitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a long-term disabling illness without a medically explained cause. Recently during COVID-19 pandemic, many studies have confirmed the symptoms similar to ME/CFS in the recovered individuals. To investigate the virus-related etiopathogenesis of ME/CFS, we conducted a systematic assessment of viral infection frequency in ME/CFS patients. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed and the Cochrane Library from their inception through December 31, 2022, using selection criteria of viral infection prevalence in ME/CFS patients and controls. Subsequently, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the extent of viral infections' contribution to ME/CFS by comparing the odds ratio between ME/CFS patients and controls (healthy and/or diseased). RESULTS Finally, 64 studies met our eligibility criteria regarding 18 species of viruses, including a total of 4971 ME/CFS patients and 9221 control subjects. The participants included healthy subjects and individuals with one of 10 diseases, such as multiple sclerosis or fibromyalgia. Two DNA viruses (human herpes virus (HHV)-7 and parvovirus B19, including their co-infection) and 3 RNA viruses (borna disease virus (BDV), enterovirus and coxsackie B virus) showed odds ratios greater than 2.0 compared with healthy and/or diseased subjects. Specifically, BDV exceeded the cutoff with an odds ratio of ≥ 3.47 (indicating a "moderate association" by Cohen's d test) compared to both healthy and diseased controls. CONCLUSION This study comprehensively evaluated the risk of viral infections associated with ME/CFS, and identified BDV. These results provide valuable reference data for future studies investigating the role of viruses in the causation of ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hyun Hwang
- Korean Medical College of Daejeon University, 62, Daehak-Ro, Dong-Gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea, 34520
| | - Jin-Seok Lee
- Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, 62 Daehak-Ro, Dong-Gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea, 34520
| | - Hyeon-Muk Oh
- Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, 62 Daehak-Ro, Dong-Gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea, 34520
| | - Eun-Jung Lee
- Department of Korean Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, 176 Daedeok-Daero, Seo-Gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea, 35235
| | - Eun-Jin Lim
- Department of Integrative Medicine, Graduate School of Integrative Medicine, CHA University, 335 Pangyo-Ro, Bundang-Gu, Seongnam-city, 13488, Gyeonggi-Do, Korea
| | - Chang-Gue Son
- Institute of Bioscience and Integrative Medicine, Daejeon University, 62 Daehak-Ro, Dong-Gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea, 34520.
- Research Center for CFS/ME, Daejeon Oriental Hospital of Daejeon University, 176 Daedeok-Daero, Seo-Gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea, 35235.
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Nunes JM, Kell DB, Pretorius E. Cardiovascular and haematological pathology in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS): A role for viruses. Blood Rev 2023; 60:101075. [PMID: 36963989 PMCID: PMC10027292 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
ME/CFS is a debilitating chronic condition that often develops after viral or bacterial infection. Insight from the study of Long COVID/Post Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), the post-viral syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, might prove to be useful for understanding pathophysiological mechanisms of ME/CFS. Disease presentation is similar between the two conditions, and a subset of Long COVID patients meet the diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS. Since Long COVID is characterized by significant vascular pathology - including endothelial dysfunction, coagulopathy, and vascular dysregulation - the question of whether or not the same biological abnormalities are of significance in ME/CFS arises. Cardiac abnormalities have for a while now been documented in ME/CFS cohorts, with recent studies demonstrating major deficits in cerebral blood flow, and hence vascular dysregulation. A growing body of research is demonstrating that ME/CFS is accompanied by platelet hyperactivation, anomalous clotting, a procoagulant phenotype, and endothelial dysfunction. Endothelial damage and dysregulated clotting can impair substance exchange between blood and tissues, and result in hypoperfusion, which may contribute to the manifestation of certain ME/CFS symptoms. Here we review the ME/CFS literature to summarize cardiovascular and haematological findings documented in patients with the condition, and, in this context, briefly discuss the potential role of previously-implicated pathogens. Overall, cardiac and haematological abnormalities are present within ME/CFS cohorts. While atherosclerotic heart disease is not significantly associated with ME/CFS, suboptimal cardiovascular function defined by reduced cardiac output, impaired cerebral blood flow, and vascular dysregulation are, and these abnormalities do not appear to be influenced by deconditioning. Rather, these cardiac abnormalities may result from dysfunction in the (autonomic) nervous system. Plenty of recently published studies are demonstrating significant platelet hyperactivity and endothelial dysfunction in ME/CFS, as well as anomalous clotting processes. It is of particular importance to determine to what extent these cardiovascular and haematological abnormalities contribute to symptom severity, and if these two systems can be targeted for therapeutic purposes. Viral reservoirs of herpesviruses exist in ME/CFS, and most likely contribute to cardiovascular and haematological dysfunction directly or indirectly. This review highlights the potential of studying cardiac functioning, the vasculature, and coagulation system in ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean M Nunes
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa.
| | - Douglas B Kell
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa; Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK; The Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Biosustainability, Building 220, Chemitorvet 200, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Etheresia Pretorius
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa; Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK.
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Goldberg NC, Poirier S, Kanas A, McCorkell L, McGinn CA, Re’em Y, Kuehnel K, Muirhead N, Ruschioni T, Taylor-Brown S, Jason LA. A new clinical challenge: supporting patients coping with the long-term effects of COVID-19. FATIGUE : BIOMEDICINE, HEALTH & BEHAVIOR 2022; 10:212-230. [PMID: 38283613 PMCID: PMC10822158 DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2022.2128576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Mental Health Practitioners (MHPs) have a unique opportunity to provide resources and support to those suffering from Long COVID (LC), the post infectious illness that often follows an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. In working with these individuals, MHPs can learn from the experiences of patients with another post-infectious disease known as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). ME/CFS was once thought to be a psychologically mediated disorder caused by deconditioning and the fear of exertion following a precipitating event such as a viral infection. Research now shows that LC and ME/CFS are biomedical, multisystem, complex physiologic diseases. This article provides a framework to MHPs for the treatment of LC patients using knowledge derived from three decades of research on ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sabrina Poirier
- Research – Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Other Complex Chronic Illnesses, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Lisa McCorkell
- Patient-Led Research Collaborative, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Carrie Anna McGinn
- Patient Advocate/Patient Partner in Research – Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Yochai Re’em
- Psychiatrist Specializing in Treating Patients with Long COVID, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Commonalities in the Features of Cancer and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): Evidence for Stress-Induced Phenotype Instability? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020691. [PMID: 35054876 PMCID: PMC8775947 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) and Cancer-Related Fatigue (CRF) are syndromes with considerable overlap with respect to symptoms. There have been many studies that have compared the two conditions, and some of this research suggests that the etiologies of the conditions are linked in some cases. In this narrative review, CFS/ME and cancer are introduced, along with their known and putative mechanistic connections to multiple stressors including ionizing radiation. Next, we summarize findings from the literature that suggest the involvement of HPA-axis dysfunction, the serotonergic system, cytokines and inflammation, metabolic insufficiency and mitochondrial dysfunction, and genetic changes in CRF and CFS/ME. We further suspect that the manifestation of fatigue in both diseases and its causes could indicate that CRF and CFS/ME lie on a continuum of potential biological effects which occur in response to stress. The response to this stress likely varies depending on predisposing factors such as genetic background. Finally, future research ideas are suggested with a focus on determining if common biomarkers exist in CFS/ME patients and those afflicted with CRF. Both CFS/ME and CRF are relatively heterogenous syndromes, however, it is our hope that this review assists in future research attempting to elucidate the commonalities between CRF and CFS/ME.
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Dehhaghi M, Panahi HKS, Kavyani B, Heng B, Tan V, Braidy N, Guillemin GJ. The Role of Kynurenine Pathway and NAD + Metabolism in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Aging Dis 2022; 13:698-711. [PMID: 35656104 PMCID: PMC9116917 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.0824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a serious, complex, and highly debilitating long-term illness. People with ME/CFS are typically unable to carry out their routine activities. Key hallmarks of the disease are neurological and gastrointestinal impairments accompanied by pervasive malaise that is exacerbated after physical and/or mental activity. Currently, there is no validated cure of biomarker signature for this illness. Impaired tryptophan (TRYP) metabolism is thought to play significant role in the pathobiology of ME/CFS. TRYP is an important precursor for serotonin and the essential pyridine nucleotide nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). TRYP has been associated with the development of some parts of the brain responsible for behavioural functions. The main catabolic route for TRYP is the kynurenine pathway (KP). The KP produces NAD+ and several neuroactive metabolites with neuroprotective (i.e., kynurenic acid (KYNA)) and neurotoxic (i.e., quinolinic acid (QUIN)) activities. Hyperactivation of the KP, whether compensatory or a driving mechanism of degeneration can limit the availability of NAD+ and exacerbate the symptoms of ME/CFS. This review discusses the potential association of altered KP metabolism in ME/CFS. The review also evaluates the role of the patient’s gut microbiota on TRYP availability and KP activation. We propose that strategies aimed at raising the levels of NAD+ (e.g., using nicotinamide mononucleotide and nicotinamide riboside) may be a promising intervention to overcome symptoms of fatigue and to improve the quality of life in patients with ME/CFS. Future clinical trials should further assess the potential benefits of NAD+ supplements for reducing some of the clinical features of ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Dehhaghi
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia.
- PANDIS.org, Australia.
| | | | - Bahar Kavyani
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia.
| | - Benjamin Heng
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia.
- PANDIS.org, Australia.
| | - Vanessa Tan
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia.
- PANDIS.org, Australia.
| | - Nady Braidy
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Gilles J. Guillemin
- Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia.
- PANDIS.org, Australia.
- Correspondence should be addressed to: Dr. Gilles J. Guillemin, Neuroinflammation Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, NSW, Australia. .
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Stanculescu D, Sepúlveda N, Lim CL, Bergquist J. Lessons From Heat Stroke for Understanding Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Front Neurol 2021; 12:789784. [PMID: 34966354 PMCID: PMC8710546 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.789784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We here provide an overview of the pathophysiological mechanisms during heat stroke and describe similar mechanisms found in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Both conditions are characterized by disturbed homeostasis in which inflammatory pathways play a central role. Splanchnic vasoconstriction, increased gut permeability, gut-related endotoxemia, systemic inflammatory response, central nervous system dysfunction, blood coagulation disorder, endothelial-cell injury, and mitochondrial dysfunction underlie heat stroke. These mechanisms have also been documented in ME/CFS. Moreover, initial transcriptomic studies suggest that similar gene expressions are altered in both heat stroke and ME/CFS. Finally, some predisposing factors for heat stroke, such as pre-existing inflammation or infection, overlap with those for ME/CFS. Notwithstanding important differences - and despite heat stroke being an acute condition - the overlaps between heat stroke and ME/CFS suggest common pathways in the physiological responses to very different forms of stressors, which are manifested in different clinical outcomes. The human studies and animal models of heat stroke provide an explanation for the self-perpetuation of homeostatic imbalance centered around intestinal wall injury, which could also inform the understanding of ME/CFS. Moreover, the studies of novel therapeutics for heat stroke might provide new avenues for the treatment of ME/CFS. Future research should be conducted to investigate the similarities between heat stroke and ME/CFS to help identify the potential treatments for ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nuno Sepúlveda
- CEAUL—Centro de Estatística e Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Mathematics and Information Science, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Chin Leong Lim
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jonas Bergquist
- Analytical Chemistry and Neurochemistry, Department of Chemistry—BMC, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- The ME/CFS Collaborative Research Center at Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Hng KN, Geraghty K, Pheby DFH. An Audit of UK Hospital Doctors' Knowledge and Experience of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:885. [PMID: 34577808 PMCID: PMC8464998 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57090885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: There is some evidence that knowledge and understanding of ME among doctors is limited. Consequently, an audit study was carried out on a group of hospital doctors attending a training event to establish how much they knew about ME and their attitudes towards it. Materials and Methods: Participants at the training event were asked to complete a questionnaire, enquiring about prior knowledge and experience of ME and their approaches to diagnosis and treatment. A total of 44 completed questionnaires were returned. Responses were tabulated, proportions selecting available options determined, 95% confidence limits calculated, and the significance of associations determined by Fisher's exact test. Results: Few respondents had any formal teaching on ME, though most had some experience of it. Few knew how to diagnose it and most lacked confidence in managing it. None of the respondents who had had teaching or prior experience of ME considered it a purely physical illness. Overall, 82% of participants believed ME was at least in part psychological. Most participants responded correctly to a series of propositions about the general epidemiology and chronicity of ME. There was little knowledge of definitions of ME, diagnosis, or of clinical manifestations. Understanding about appropriate management was very deficient. Similarly, there was little appreciation of the impact of the disease on daily living or quality of life. Where some doctors expressed confidence diagnosing or managing ME, this was misplaced as they were incorrect on the nature of ME, its diagnostic criteria and its treatment. Conclusion: This audit demonstrates that most doctors lack training and clinical expertise in ME. Nevertheless, participants recognised a need for further training and indicated a wish to participate in this. It is strongly recommended that factually correct and up-to-date medical education on ME be made a priority at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It is also recommended that this audit be repeated following a period of medical education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keng Ngee Hng
- ST7 General Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology (Ret), Doctors with M.E., Office 7, 37-39 Shakespeare Street, Southport PR8 5AB, UK
| | - Keith Geraghty
- Centre for Primary Care, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK;
| | - Derek F. H. Pheby
- Society and Health, Buckinghamshire New University, High Wycombe HP11 2JZ, UK;
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Chu L, Elliott M, Stein E, Jason LA. Identifying and Managing Suicidality in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:629. [PMID: 34070367 PMCID: PMC8227525 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9060629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult patients affected by myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are at an increased risk of death by suicide. Based on the scientific literature and our clinical/research experiences, we identify risk and protective factors and provide a guide to assessing and managing suicidality in an outpatient medical setting. A clinical case is used to illustrate how information from this article can be applied. Characteristics of ME/CFS that make addressing suicidality challenging include absence of any disease-modifying treatments, severe functional limitations, and symptoms which limit therapies. Decades-long misattribution of ME/CFS to physical deconditioning or psychiatric disorders have resulted in undereducated healthcare professionals, public stigma, and unsupportive social interactions. Consequently, some patients may be reluctant to engage with mental health care. Outpatient medical professionals play a vital role in mitigating these effects. By combining evidence-based interventions aimed at all suicidal patients with those adapted to individual patients' circumstances, suffering and suicidality can be alleviated in ME/CFS. Increased access to newer virtual or asynchronous modalities of psychiatric/psychological care, especially for severely ill patients, may be a silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Chu
- Independent Consultant, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA
| | - Meghan Elliott
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL 60614, USA; (M.E.); (L.A.J.)
| | - Eleanor Stein
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2T 4L8, Canada;
| | - Leonard A. Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL 60614, USA; (M.E.); (L.A.J.)
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Nacul L, Authier FJ, Scheibenbogen C, Lorusso L, Helland IB, Martin JA, Sirbu CA, Mengshoel AM, Polo O, Behrends U, Nielsen H, Grabowski P, Sekulic S, Sepulveda N, Estévez-López F, Zalewski P, Pheby DFH, Castro-Marrero J, Sakkas GK, Capelli E, Brundsdlund I, Cullinan J, Krumina A, Bergquist J, Murovska M, Vermuelen RCW, Lacerda EM. European Network on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (EUROMENE): Expert Consensus on the Diagnosis, Service Provision, and Care of People with ME/CFS in Europe. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:510. [PMID: 34069603 PMCID: PMC8161074 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57050510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Designed by a group of ME/CFS researchers and health professionals, the European Network on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (EUROMENE) has received funding from the European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST)-COST action 15111-from 2016 to 2020. The main goal of the Cost Action was to assess the existing knowledge and experience on health care delivery for people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) in European countries, and to enhance coordinated research and health care provision in this field. We report our findings and make recommendations for clinical diagnosis, health services and care for people with ME/CFS in Europe, as prepared by the group of clinicians and researchers from 22 countries and 55 European health professionals and researchers, who have been informed by people with ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Nacul
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London WC1E 7HT, UK
- BC Women’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
| | | | - Carmen Scheibenbogen
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Lorenzo Lorusso
- Neurology and Stroke Unit—Neuroscience Department—A.S.S.T.—Lecco, 23900 Merate, Italy;
| | - Ingrid Bergliot Helland
- National Advisory Unit on CFS/ME, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet OUS, 0372 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Jose Alegre Martin
- Chronic Fatigue Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron University Hospital (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, E-08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Carmen Adella Sirbu
- Central Military Emergency University Hospital, Titu Maiorescu University, 040441 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Anne Marit Mengshoel
- Institute of Health and Society, Medical Faculty, University of Oslo, Box 1089 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Olli Polo
- Bragée ME/CFS Center, 115 26 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Uta Behrends
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, 80333 Munich, Germany;
| | - Henrik Nielsen
- Privat Hospitalet Danmark, 2920 Charlottenlund, Denmark;
| | - Patricia Grabowski
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Institute for Medical Immunology, Charite Medical School, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Slobodan Sekulic
- Medical Faculty Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Nuno Sepulveda
- Centre of Statistics and Its Applications, University of Lisbon, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | | | - Pawel Zalewski
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, Ergonomics and Postgraduate Education, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Collegium Medicum, 85-067 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Derek F. H. Pheby
- Society and Health, Buckinghamshire New University (retired), High Wycombe HP11 2JZ, UK;
| | - Jesus Castro-Marrero
- Division of Rheumatology, ME/CFS Research Unit (Lab 009–Box 02), Vall d’Hebron Hospital Research Institute (VHIR), Val d’Hebron Hospital Research Unit (VIHR), Passeig de la Val d’Hebron 119-129, E-08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Giorgos K. Sakkas
- Department of PE and Sports Science, University of Thessaly, 421 00 Trikala, Greece;
| | - Enrica Capelli
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Ivan Brundsdlund
- Department of Regional Health Research, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark;
| | - John Cullinan
- School of Business & Economics, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Angelika Krumina
- Department of Infectiology and Dermatology, Riga Stradins University, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia;
| | - Jonas Bergquist
- Department of Chemistry—Biomedical Center, Analytical Chemistry and Neuro Chemistry, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden;
- The Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Collaborative Research Centre, Uppsala University, 751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Modra Murovska
- Institute of Microbiology and Virology, Riga Stradins University, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia;
| | | | - Eliana M. Lacerda
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
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12
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Elements of Suffering in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: The Experience of Loss, Grief, Stigma, and Trauma in the Severely and Very Severely Affected. HEALTHCARE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 9:healthcare9050553. [PMID: 34065069 PMCID: PMC8150911 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9050553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
People who are severely and very severely affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) experience profound suffering. This suffering comes from the myriad of losses these patients experience, the grief that comes from these losses, the ongoing stigma that is often experienced as a person with a poorly understood, controversial chronic illness, and the trauma that can result from how other people and the health care community respond to this illness. This review article examines the suffering of patients with ME/CFS through the lens of the Fennell Four-Phase Model of chronic illness. Using a systems approach, this phase framework illustrates the effects of suffering on the patient and can be utilized to help the clinician, patient, family, and caregivers understand and respond to the patient's experiences. We highlight the constructs of severity, uncertainty, ambiguity, and chronicity and their role in the suffering endured by patients with ME/CFS. A composite case example is used to illustrate the lives of severely and very severely affected patients. Recommendations for health care providers treating patients with ME/CFS are given and underscore the importance of providers understanding the intense suffering that the severely and very severely affected patients experience.
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Mirin AA, Dimmock ME, Jason LA. Research update: The relation between ME/CFS disease burden and research funding in the USA. Work 2021; 66:277-282. [PMID: 32568148 DOI: 10.3233/wor-203173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating, chronic, multisystem disease that affects an estimated 1 to 2.5 million Americans. It has no widely accepted biomarkers and no FDA-approved treatment. ME/CFS has traditionally been one of the lowest funded diseases by the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH). OBJECTIVES We provide here an update to our 2016 article, which estimated the disease burden of ME/CFS in the United States in 2013 and its relation to NIH's 2015 analysis of research funding and disease burden. This update incorporates more recent burden data from 2015 and funding data from 2017. METHODS We perform a regression analysis on funding versus disease burden to determine 2017 funding levels that would be commensurate with burden. Burden figures for 2017 are estimated using population-based extrapolations of earlier data. RESULTS We find the disease burden of ME/CFS is double that of HIV/AIDS and over half that of breast cancer. We also find that ME/CFS is more underfunded with respect to burden than any disease in NIH's analysis of funding and disease burden, with ME/CFS receiving roughly 7% of that commensurate with disease burden. CONCLUSIONS To be commensurate with disease burden, NIH funding would need to increase roughly 14-fold.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leonard A Jason
- Director, Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
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14
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Williams LR, Isaacson-Barash C. Three Cases of Severe ME/CFS in Adults. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:215. [PMID: 33669438 PMCID: PMC7920463 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex, only partially understood multi-system disease whose onset and severity vary widely. Symptoms include overwhelming fatigue, post-exertional malaise, sleep disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, orthostatic intolerance, cognitive impairment, etc. ME/CFS is a physiological disease with an onset often triggered by a viral or bacterial infection, and sometimes by toxins. Some patients have a mild case and are able to function nearly on a par with healthy individuals, while others are moderately ill and still others are severely, or even, very severely ill. The cohort of moderately to very severely ill is often housebound or bedbound, has lost employment or career, and has engaged in a long, and often futile, search for treatment and relief. Here, we present three case studies, one each of a moderately ill, a severely ill, and a very severely ill person, to demonstrate the complexity of the disease, the suffering of these patients, and what health care providers can do to help.
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Strayer DR, Young D, Mitchell WM. Effect of disease duration in a randomized Phase III trial of rintatolimod, an immune modulator for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240403. [PMID: 33119613 PMCID: PMC7595369 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rintatolimod is a selective TLR3 agonist, which has demonstrated clinical activity for ME/CFS in Phase II and Phase III double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multi-site clinical trials. METHODS AND FINDINGS A hypothesis-based post-hoc analysis of the Intent to Treat (ITT) population diagnosed with ME/CFS from 12 independent clinical sites of a Phase III trial was performed to evaluate the effect of rintatolimod therapy based on disease duration. The clinical activity of rintatolimod was evaluated by exercise treadmill tolerance (ETT) using a modified Bruce protocol. The ITT population (n = 208) was divided into two subsets of symptom duration. Patients with symptom duration of 2-8 years were identified as the Target Subset (n = 75); the remainder (<2 year plus >8 year) were identified as the Non-Target Subset (n = 133). Placebo-adjusted percentage improvements in exercise duration and the vertical rise for the Target Subset (n = 75) were more than twice that of the ITT population. The Non-Target Subset (n = 133) failed to show any clinically significant ETT response to rintatolimod when compared to placebo. Within the Target Subset, 51.2% of rintatolimod-treated patients improved their exercise duration by ≥25% (p = 0.003) despite reduced statistical power from division of the original ITT population into two subsets. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE Analysis of ETT from a Phase III trial has identified within the ITT population, a subset of ME/CFS patients with ≥2 fold increased exercise response to rintatolimod. Substantial improvement in physical performance was seen for the majority (51.2%) of these severely debilitated patients who improved exercise duration by ≥25%. This magnitude of exercise improvement was associated with clinically significant enhancements in quality of life. The data indicate that ME/CFS patients have a relatively short disease duration window (<8 years) to expect a significant response to rintatolimod under the dosing conditions utilized in this Phase III clinical trial. These results may have direct relevance to the cognitive impairment and fatigue being experienced by patients clinically recovered from COVID-19 and free of detectable SARS-CoV-2. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00215800.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R. Strayer
- AIM ImmunoTech Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Diane Young
- AIM ImmunoTech Inc., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - William M. Mitchell
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
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16
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Close S, Marshall-Gradisnik S, Byrnes J, Smith P, Nghiem S, Staines D. The Economic Impacts of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in an Australian Cohort. Front Public Health 2020; 8:420. [PMID: 32974259 PMCID: PMC7472917 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to estimate direct and indirect health economic costs associated with government and out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure based on health care service utilization and lost income of participants and carers, as reported by Australian Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) patient survey participants. Design: A cost of illness study was conducted to estimate Australian cost data for individuals with a ME/CFS diagnosis as determined by the Canadian Consensus Criteria (CCC), International Consensus Criteria (ICC), and the 1994 CDC Criteria (Fukuda). Setting and participants: Survey participants identified from a research registry database provided self-report of expenditure associated with ME/CFS related healthcare across a 1-month timeframe between 2017 and 2019. Main outcome measures: ME/CFS related direct annual government health care costs, OOP health expenditure costs, indirect costs associated with lost income and health care service use patterns. Results: The mean annual cost of health care related expenditure and associated income loss among survey participants meeting diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS was estimated at $14.5 billion. For direct OOP and Government health care expenditure, high average costs were related to medical practitioner attendance, diagnostics, natural medicines, and device expenditure, with an average attendance of 10.6 referred attendances per annum and 12.1 GP visits per annum related specifically to managing ME/CFS. Conclusions: The economic impacts of ME/CFS in Australia are significant. Improved understanding of the illness pathology, diagnosis, and management, may reduce costs, improve patient prognosis and decrease the burden of ME/CFS in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shara Close
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, Australia
| | - Sonya Marshall-Gradisnik
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Joshua Byrnes
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - Peter Smith
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Son Nghiem
- Centre for Applied Health Economics, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
| | - Don Staines
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
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Kingdon C, Giotas D, Nacul L, Lacerda E. Health Care Responsibility and Compassion-Visiting the Housebound Patient Severely Affected by ME/CFS. Healthcare (Basel) 2020; 8:E197. [PMID: 32635535 PMCID: PMC7551603 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare8030197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Many people with severe Myalgic Encephalopathy/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) commonly receive no care from healthcare professionals, while some have become distanced from all statutory medical services. Paradoxically, it is often the most seriously ill and needy who are the most neglected by those responsible for their healthcare. Reasons for this include tensions around the complexity of making an accurate diagnosis in the absence of a biomarker, the bitter debate about the effectiveness of the few available treatments, and the very real stigma associated with the diagnosis. Illness severity often precludes attendance at healthcare facilities, and if an individual is well enough to be able to attend an appointment, the presentation will not be typical; by definition, patients who are severely affected are home-bound and often confined to bed. We argue that a holistic model, such as ''Compassion in Practice'', can help with planning appointments and caring for people severely affected by ME/CFS. We show how this can be used to frame meaningful interactions between the healthcare practitioners (HCPs) and the homebound patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kingdon
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London WC1E 7HT, UK; (D.G.); (L.N.); (E.L.)
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Johnson ML, Cotler J, Terman JM, Jason LA. Risk factors for suicide in chronic fatigue syndrome. DEATH STUDIES 2020; 46:738-744. [PMID: 32527207 PMCID: PMC9152620 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2020.1776789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) includes symptoms such as post-exertional malaise, unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive impairments. Several studies suggest these patients have an increased risk of suicidal ideation and early mortality, although few have published in this area. This study explores risk factors for suicide among 64 individuals with ME/CFS using archival data, 17 of which died from suicide. Results indicated an increased risk of suicide for those for those utilizing the label CFS, for those with limited overall functioning, and for those without comorbid illnesses. Findings suggest that stigma and functional impairments limit access to care and social supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline L Johnson
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Joseph Cotler
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Julia M Terman
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Leonard A Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Carr MJ, Ashcroft DM, White PD, Kapur N, Webb RT. Prevalence of comorbid mental and physical illnesses and risks for self-harm and premature death among primary care patients diagnosed with fatigue syndromes. Psychol Med 2020; 50:1156-1163. [PMID: 31131782 PMCID: PMC7253619 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291719001065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fatigue syndromes (FSs) affect large numbers of individuals, yet evidence from epidemiological studies on adverse outcomes, such as premature death, is limited. METHODS Cohort study involving 385 general practices in England that contributed to the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) with linked inpatient Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) and Office for National Statistics (ONS) cause of death information. A total of 10 477 patients aged 15 years and above, diagnosed with a FS during 2000-2014, were individually matched with up to 20 comparator patients without a history of having a FS. Prevalence ratios (PRs) were estimated to compare the FS and comparison cohorts on clinical characteristics. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for subsequent adverse outcomes were estimated from stratified Cox regression models. RESULTS Among patients diagnosed with FSs, we found elevated baseline prevalence of: any psychiatric illness (PR 1.77; 95% CI 1.72-1.82), anxiety disorders (PR 1.92; 1.85-1.99), depression (PR 1.89; 1.83-1.96), psychotropic prescriptions (PR 1.68; 1.64-1.72) and comorbid physical illness (PR 1.28; 1.23-1.32). We found no significant differences in risks for: all-cause mortality (HR 0.99; 0.91-1.09), natural death (HR 0.99; 0.90-1.09), unnatural death (HR 1.00; 0.59-1.72) or suicide (HR 1.68; 0.78-3.63). We did, however, observe a significantly elevated non-fatal self-harm risk: HR 1.83; 1.56-2.15. CONCLUSIONS The absence of elevated premature mortality risk is reassuring. The raised prevalence of mental illness and increased non-fatal self-harm risk indicate a need for enhanced assessment and management of psychopathology associated with fatigue syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Carr
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, ManchesterM13 9PL, UK
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, ManchesterM13 9PL, UK
| | - Darren M. Ashcroft
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, ManchesterM13 9PL, UK
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Peter D. White
- Wolfson Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Nav Kapur
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, ManchesterM13 9PL, UK
- Greater Manchester Mental Health and Social Care Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Roger T. Webb
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, ManchesterM13 9PL, UK
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, ManchesterM13 9PL, UK
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20
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Scherbakov N, Szklarski M, Hartwig J, Sotzny F, Lorenz S, Meyer A, Grabowski P, Doehner W, Scheibenbogen C. Peripheral endothelial dysfunction in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. ESC Heart Fail 2020; 7:1064-1071. [PMID: 32154656 PMCID: PMC7261521 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.12633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex multisystem disease. Evidence for disturbed vascular regulation comes from various studies showing cerebral hypoperfusion and orthostatic intolerance. The peripheral endothelial dysfunction (ED) has not been sufficiently investigated in patients with ME/CFS. The aim of the present study was to examine peripheral endothelial function in patients with ME/CFS. METHODS AND RESULTS Thirty-five patients [median age 40 (range 18-70) years, mean body mass index 23.8 ± 4.2 kg/m2 , 31% male] with ME/CFS were studied for peripheral endothelial function assessed by peripheral arterial tonometry (EndoPAT2000). Clinical diagnosis of ME/CFS was based on Canadian Criteria. Nine of these patients with elevated antibodies against β2-adrenergic receptor underwent immunoadsorption, and endothelial function was measured at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months follow-up. ED was defined by reactive hyperaemia index ≤1.81. Twenty healthy subjects of similar age and body mass index were used as a control group. Peripheral ED was found in 18 of 35 patients (51%) with ME/CFS and in 4 healthy subjects (20%, P < 0.05). Patients with ED, in contrast to patients with normal endothelial function, reported more severe disease according to Bell score (31 ± 12 vs. 40 ± 16, P = 0.04), as well as more severe fatigue-related symptoms (8.62 ± 0.87 vs. 7.75 ± 1.40, P = 0.04) including a higher demand for breaks [9.0 (interquartile range 7.0-10.0) vs. 7.5 (interquartile range 6.0-9.25), P = 0.04]. Peripheral ED showed correlations with more severe immune-associated symptoms (r = -0.41, P = 0.026), such as sore throat (r = -0.38, P = 0.038) and painful lymph nodes (r = -0.37, P = 0.042), as well as more severe disease according to Bell score (r = 0.41, P = 0.008) and symptom score (r = -0.59, P = 0.005). There were no differences between the patient group with ED and the patient group with normal endothelial function regarding demographic, metabolic, and laboratory parameters. Further, there was no difference in soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule levels. At baseline, peripheral ED was observed in six patients who underwent immunoadsorption. After 12 months, endothelial function had improved in five of these six patients (reactive hyperaemia index 1.58 ± 0.15 vs. 2.02 ± 0.46, P = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS Peripheral ED is frequent in patients with ME/CFS and associated with disease severity and severity of immune symptoms. As ED is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, it is important to elucidate if peripheral ED is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Scherbakov
- Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marvin Szklarski
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Campus Virchow, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jelka Hartwig
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Campus Virchow, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Franziska Sotzny
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Campus Virchow, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Lorenz
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Campus Virchow, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Antje Meyer
- Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patricia Grabowski
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Campus Virchow, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfram Doehner
- Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carmen Scheibenbogen
- Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Medical Immunology, Campus Virchow, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2019; 9:diagnostics9030091. [PMID: 31394725 PMCID: PMC6787585 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics9030091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating chronic disease of unknown aetiology that is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC) as a disorder of the brain. The disease predominantly affects adults, with a peak age of onset of between 20 and 45 years with a female to male ratio of 3:1. Although the clinical features of the disease have been well established within diagnostic criteria, the diagnosis of ME/CFS is still of exclusion, meaning that other medical conditions must be ruled out. The pathophysiological mechanisms are unclear but the neuro-immuno-endocrinological pattern of CFS patients gleaned from various studies indicates that these three pillars may be the key point to understand the complexity of the disease. At the moment, there are no specific pharmacological therapies to treat the disease, but several studies' aims and therapeutic approaches have been described in order to benefit patients' prognosis, symptomatology relief, and the recovery of pre-existing function. This review presents a pathophysiological approach to understanding the essential concepts of ME/CFS, with an emphasis on the population, clinical, and genetic concepts associated with ME/CFS.
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Chu L, Valencia IJ, Garvert DW, Montoya JG. Onset Patterns and Course of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Front Pediatr 2019; 7:12. [PMID: 30805319 PMCID: PMC6370741 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2019.00012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epidemiologic studies of myalgic encephalomyelitis/ chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) have examined different aspects of this disease separately but few have explored them together. Objective: Describe ME/CFS onset and course in one United States-based cohort. Methods: One hundred and fifty subjects fitting Fukuda 1994 CFS criteria completed a detailed survey concerning the initial and subsequent stages of their illness. Descriptive statistics, graphs, and tables were used to illustrate prevalence and patterns of characteristics. Results: The most common peri-onset events reported by subjects were infection-related episodes (64%), stressful incidents (39%), and exposure to environmental toxins (20%). For 38% of subjects, more than 6 months elapsed from experiencing any initial symptom to developing the set of symptoms comprising their ME/CFS. Over time, the 12 most common symptoms persisted but declined in prevalence, with fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, exertion-related sickness, and flu-like symptoms declining the most (by 20-25%). Conversely, cognitive symptoms changed the least in prevalence, rising in symptom ranking. Pregnancy, menopause, and menstrual cycles exacerbated many women's symptoms. Fatigue-related function was not associated with duration of illness or age; during the worst periods of their illness, 48% of subjects could not engage in any productive activity. At the time of survey, 47% were unable to work and only 4% felt their condition was improving steadily with the majority (59%) describing a fluctuating course. Ninety-seven percent suffered from at least one other illness: anxiety (48%), depression (43%), fibromyalgia (39%), irritable bowel syndrome (38%), and migraine headaches (37%) were the most diagnosed conditions. Thirteen percent came from families where at least one other first-degree relative was also afflicted, rising to 27% when chronic fatigue of unclear etiology was included. Conclusions: This paper offers a broad epidemiologic overview of one ME/CFS cohort in the United States. While most of our findings are consistent with prior studies, we highlight underexamined aspects of this condition (e.g., the evolution of symptoms) and propose new interpretations of findings. Studying these aspects can offer insight and solutions to the diagnosis, etiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Chu
- Stanford ME/CFS Initiative, Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating disease characterized by fatigue, postexertional malaise, cognitive dysfunction, sleep disturbances, and widespread pain. A pilot, online survey was used to determine the common presentations of CFS patients in the emergency department (ED) and attitudes about their encounters. METHODS The anonymous survey was created to score the severity of core CFS symptoms, reasons for going to the ED, and Likert scales to grade attitudes and impressions of care. Open text fields were qualitatively categorized to determine common themes about encounters. RESULTS Fifty-nine percent of respondents with physician-diagnosed CFS (total n=282) had gone to an ED. One-third of ED presentations were consistent with orthostatic intolerance; 42% of participants were dismissed as having psychosomatic complaints. ED staff were not knowledgeable about CFS. Encounters were unfavorable (3.6 on 10-point scale). The remaining 41% of subjects did not go to ED, stating nothing could be done or they would not be taken seriously. CFS subjects can be identified by a CFS questionnaire and the prolonged presence (>6 months) of unremitting fatigue, cognitive, sleep, and postexertional malaise problems. CONCLUSION This is the first investigation of the presentation of CFS in the ED and indicates the importance of orthostatic intolerance as the most frequent acute cause for a visit. The self-report CFS questionnaire may be useful as a screening instrument in the ED. Education of ED staff about modern concepts of CFS is necessary to improve patient and staff satisfaction. Guidance is provided for the diagnosis and treatment of CFS in these challenging encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian R Timbol
- Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA,
| | - James N Baraniuk
- Division of Rheumatology, Immunology and Allergy, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA,
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McManimen SL, McClellan D, Stoothoff J, Jason LA. Effects of unsupportive social interactions, stigma, and symptoms on patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2018; 46:959-971. [PMID: 30311972 PMCID: PMC7944645 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.21984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Prior research has found a heightened risk of suicide in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It is possible that a number of factors including stigma, unsupportive social interactions, and severe symptoms could lead to the development of depression, suicidal ideation, and heightened risk of suicide in this patient population. Prior studies have indicated that patients often report the legitimacy of their illness being questioned by family, friends, and even their physicians. This study aimed to determine whether stigma experienced, social support, symptomology, and functioning may be associated with depression and endorsement of suicidal ideation (SI) in patients with a self-reported diagnosis of ME or CFS. Findings indicated that participants that endorsed both SI and depression, in contrast to those that did not, experienced more frequent unsupportive social interactions in the form of blame for their illness, minimization of its severity, and social distancing from others. In addition, 7.1% of patients with ME and CFS endorsed SI but do not meet the criteria for clinical depression These findings highlight the importance of stigma and unsupportive social interactions as risk factors for suicidal thoughts or actions among patients with ME and CFS. Community psychologists have an important role to play in helping educate health care professionals and the public to these types of risk factors for patients marginalized by ME and CFS.
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25
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Devendorf AR, McManimen SL, Jason LA. Suicidal ideation in non-depressed individuals: The effects of a chronic, misunderstood illness. J Health Psychol 2018; 25:2106-2117. [PMID: 29992837 DOI: 10.1177/1359105318785450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic illness is a risk factor for suicide but is often explained with depression. Research has shown an increased suicide rate in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome, but specific risk factors have been unexplored. We qualitatively analyzed responses from 29 patients who endorsed suicidal ideation but did not meet depression criteria. Two themes were developed: (1) feeling trapped and (2) loss of self, loss of others, stigma and conflict. Myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome caused patients severe disability, restructured their lives, and inflicted serious pain. Participants emphasized that they were not depressed, but felt trapped by the lack of treatments available.
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26
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Schmaling KB, Fales JL, McPherson S. Longitudinal outcomes associated with significant other responses to chronic fatigue and pain. J Health Psychol 2017; 25:692-702. [PMID: 28925285 DOI: 10.1177/1359105317731824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated significant others' behavior associated with fatigue, pain, and mental health outcomes among 68 individuals with chronic fatigue (43% also had fibromyalgia) over 18 months. More negative significant others' responses were associated with more pain, poorer physical and mental health, and more fatigue-related symptoms over time. More fibromyalgia tender points covaried with more solicitous significant others' responses over time. Better mental health covaried with more distracting significant others' responses over time. The results are discussed in terms of theoretical models of the role of perceived significant others' responses on patient outcomes and recommendations for future research.
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