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Griffin DO. Postacute Sequelae of COVID (PASC or Long COVID): An Evidenced-Based Approach. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofae462. [PMID: 39220656 PMCID: PMC11363684 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofae462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
While the acute manifestations of infectious diseases are well known, in some individuals, symptoms can either persist or appear after the acute period. Postviral fatigue syndromes are recognized with other viral infections and are described after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We have a growing number of individuals with symptoms that persist for weeks, months, and years. Here, we share the evidence regarding the abnormalities associated with postacute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) and therapeutics. We describe physiological and biochemical abnormalities seen in individuals reporting PASC. We describe the several evidence-based interventions to offer patients. It is expected that this growing understanding of the mechanisms driving PASC and the benefits seen with certain therapeutics may not only lead to better outcomes for those with PASC but may also have the potential for understanding and treating other postinfectious sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel O Griffin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
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2
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König RS, Paris DH, Sollberger M, Tschopp R. Identifying the mental health burden in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) patients in Switzerland: A pilot study. Heliyon 2024; 10:e27031. [PMID: 38434357 PMCID: PMC10907781 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e27031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating chronic disease of significant public health and clinical importance. It affects multiple systems in the body and has neuro-immunological characteristics. The disease is characterized by a prominent symptom called post-exertional malaise (PEM), as well as abnormalities in the immune-inflammatory pathways, mitochondrial dysfunctions and disturbances in neuroendocrine pathways. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of ME/CFS on the mental health and secondary psychosocial manifestations of patients, as well as their coping mechanisms. Method In 2021, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Switzerland. A self-administered paper questionnaire survey was used to gather data from 169 individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS. Results The majority of the patients (90.5%) reported a lack of understanding of their disease, resulting in patients avoiding talking about the disease due to disbelief, trivialization and avoidance of negative reactions. They felt most supported by close family members (67.1%). Two thirds of the patients (68.5%) experienced stigmatization. ME/CFS had a negative impact on mental health in most patients (88.2%), leading to sadness (71%), hopelessness for relief (66.9%), suicidal thoughts (39.3%) and secondary depression (14.8%). Half of the male patients experienced at least one suicidal thought since clinical onset. Factors significantly associated with depression were the lack of cure, disabilities associated with ME/CFS, social isolation and the fact that life was not worth anymore with ME/CFS. The three main factors contributing to suicidal thoughts were (i) being told the disease was only psychosomatic (89.5%), (ii) being at the end of one's strength (80.7%) and (iii) not feeling being understood by others (80.7%). Conclusion This study provided first time significant insights into the mental and psychological well-being of ME/CFS patients in Switzerland. The findings highlight the substantial experiences of stigmatization, secondary depression and suicidal thoughts compared to other chronic diseases, calling for an urgent need in Switzerland to improve ME/CFS patient's medical, psychological and social support, in order to alleviate the severe mental health burden associated with this overlooked somatic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Susanne König
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 61, 4056, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Henry Paris
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, 4123, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of University of Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Sollberger
- Memory Clinic, University Center for Medicine of Aging Basel, Felix Platter-Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, 4002, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rea Tschopp
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, 4123, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of University of Basel, Switzerland
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Jimma Road, 1005, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Thoma M, Froehlich L, Hattesohl DBR, Quante S, Jason LA, Scheibenbogen C. Why the Psychosomatic View on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Is Inconsistent with Current Evidence and Harmful to Patients. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 60:83. [PMID: 38256344 PMCID: PMC10819994 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Since 1969, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) has been classified as a neurological disease in the International Classification of Diseases by the World Health Organization. Although numerous studies over time have uncovered organic abnormalities in patients with ME/CFS, and the majority of researchers to date classify the disease as organic, many physicians still believe that ME/CFS is a psychosomatic illness. In this article, we show how detrimental this belief is to the care and well-being of affected patients and, as a consequence, how important the education of physicians and the public is to stop misdiagnosis, mistreatment, and stigmatization on the grounds of incorrect psychosomatic attributions about the etiology and clinical course of ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Thoma
- German Association for ME/CFS, 20146 Hamburg, Germany; (D.B.R.H.); (S.Q.)
| | - Laura Froehlich
- Research Center CATALPA, FernUniversität in Hagen, 58097 Hagen, Germany;
| | | | - Sonja Quante
- German Association for ME/CFS, 20146 Hamburg, Germany; (D.B.R.H.); (S.Q.)
| | - Leonard A. Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL 60614, USA;
| | - Carmen Scheibenbogen
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), 10117 Berlin, Germany;
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4
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Keurulainen M, Holma J, Wallenius E, Pänkäläinen M, Hintikka J, Partinen M. 'I became more aware of my actions'-A qualitative longitudinal study of a health psychological group intervention for patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. Health Expect 2023; 26:2312-2324. [PMID: 37528544 PMCID: PMC10632634 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13833] [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] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) patients' experiences of a health psychological group intervention and its usefulness, non-usefulness or harmfulness for illness management and adjustment. DESIGN A qualitative longitudinal study using inductive content analysis. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 adults. Interviews were conducted before the 16-week intervention, immediately after its completion, and at 3 months after completion. RESULTS Participants reported that the intervention was useful and not harmful. The model improved their ability to cope with ME/CFS by providing them with useful information about the illness along with peer support and professional guidance. Participants reported improved illness management and adjustment, which they perceived as an outcome of achieving new ways of thinking, feeling and acting. CONCLUSIONS Participants viewed the health psychological approach to group intervention as meeting their needs. To achieve better illness management and adjustment, more consideration should be given to supportive interactional processes with peers and healthcare professionals. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION The intervention was developed to meet patients' needs of finding ways to manage their illness. The research team consulted eight patients with ME/CFS and three clinical centres working with ME/CFS treatment and rehabilitation at the intervention planning stage. Their comments influenced the planning and content of the intervention as well as ethical issues that should be considered, such as potential harm to participants. All participants were informed about the theoretical foundations of the study and the principles guiding the intervention. Participants were not involved in the data analysis. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04151693.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meeri Keurulainen
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
- Wellbeing Services County of Päijät‐Häme, General Hospital Psychiatry Outpatient ClinicLahtiFinland
| | - Juha Holma
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
| | - Elina Wallenius
- Wellbeing Services County of Päijät‐Häme, General Hospital Psychiatry Outpatient ClinicLahtiFinland
| | - Mikko Pänkäläinen
- Wellbeing Services County of Päijät‐Häme, General Hospital Psychiatry Outpatient ClinicLahtiFinland
| | - Jukka Hintikka
- Faculty of Medicine and Health TechnologyUniversity of TampereTampereFinland
| | - Markku Partinen
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
- Terveystalo Helsinki Sleep ClinicHelsinkiFinland
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5
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Crawford JS. Issues with Expectation Bias, Absence of Data Relating to Objective Trial Outcome Measures, the Use of Low Quality Trial Design Methods and Choice of Flawed Psychological Model in ReCOVer Trial for Prolonged Fatigue Post Covid-19 Infection. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 77:1073-1074. [PMID: 37390809 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joan S Crawford
- Chronic Pain Management Service, Mersey Care National Health Service Foundation Trust, St Helens, Merseyside, United Kingdom
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6
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van der Palen J. Concerns regarding a suggested long COVID paradigm. THE LANCET RESPIRATORY MEDICINE 2023; 11:e34. [PMID: 36997263 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-2600(23)00088-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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7
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Tuller D, Vink M. Graded exercise therapy and cognitive behavior therapy do not improve employment outcomes in ME/CFS. Work 2023; 74:1235-1239. [PMID: 36911962 DOI: 10.3233/wor-220569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David Tuller
- Center for Global Public Health, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley
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8
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Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Post-COVID Syndrome: A Common Neuroimmune Ground? Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 13:diagnostics13010066. [PMID: 36611357 PMCID: PMC9818907 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating chronic disease of unknown etiology, sharing a similar clinical presentation with the increasingly recognized post-COVID syndrome. We performed the first cross-sectional study of ME/CFS in a community population in Russia. Then we described and compared some clinical and pathophysiological characteristics of ME/CFS and post-COVID syndrome as neuroimmune disorders. Of the cohort of 76 individuals who suggested themselves as suffering from ME/CFS, 56 were diagnosed with ME/CFS by clinicians according to ≥1 of the four most commonly used case definitions. Of the cohort of 14 individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome, 14 met the diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS. The severity of anxiety/depressive symptoms did not correlate with the severity of fatigue either in ME/CFS or in post-COVID ME/CFS. Still, a positive correlation was found between the severity of fatigue and 20 other symptoms of ME/CFS related to the domains of "post-exertional exhaustion", "immune dysfunction", "sleep disturbances", "dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system", "neurological sensory/motor disorders" and "pain syndromes". Immunological abnormalities were identified in 12/12 patients with ME/CFS according to the results of laboratory testing. The prevalence of postural orthostatic tachycardia assessed in the active orthostatic test amounted to 37.5% in ME/CFS and 75.0% in post-COVID ME/CFS (the latter was higher than in healthy controls, p = 0.02). There was a more pronounced increase in heart rate starting from the 6th minute of the test in post-COVID ME/CFS compared with the control group. Assessment of the functional characteristics of microcirculation by laser doppler flowmetry revealed obvious and very similar changes in ME/CFS and post-COVID ME/CFS compared to the healthy controls. The identified laser doppler flowmetry pattern corresponded to the hyperemic form of microcirculation disorders usually observed in acute inflammatory response or in case of systemic vasoconstriction failure.
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Kingdon C, Lowe A, Shepherd C, Nacul L. What Primary Care Practitioners Need to Know about the New NICE Guideline for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Adults. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:2438. [PMID: 36553962 PMCID: PMC9778354 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The new NICE guideline for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), published in October 2021, makes significant changes in treatment recommendations. It acknowledges the complexity of this chronic medical condition, which always impacts quality of life and can be profoundly disabling, recognising the prejudice and stigma that people with ME/CFS often experience in the absence of any specific diagnostic test. The guideline outlines steps for accurate diagnosis, recognising post-exertional malaise as a core symptom; importantly, ME/CFS can now be diagnosed after just 3 months in a bid to improve long-term health outcomes. It recommends the need for individual, tailored management by a multi-disciplinary team, ensuring that the wellbeing of the individual is paramount. The guideline makes clear that any programme based on fixed incremental increases in physical activity or exercise, for example, graded exercise therapy (GET), should not be offered as a treatment for ME/CFS and emphasises that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) should only be offered as a supportive intervention. Because of the rigorous methodology required by NICE Committee review and the inclusion of the testimony of people with lived experience as committee members, this guideline will influence the future diagnosis and management of ME/CFS in the UK and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Kingdon
- CureME, Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Adam Lowe
- Centre for New Writing in the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures, University of Manchester, Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Charles Shepherd
- Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Association (MEA), 7 Apollo Office Court, Buckingham MK18 4DF, UK
| | - Luis Nacul
- CureME, Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
- B.C. Women’s Hospital & Health Centre, Complex Diseases Program, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1, Canada
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10
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Hunt J, Blease C, Geraghty KJ. Long Covid at the crossroads: Comparisons and lessons from the treatment of patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). J Health Psychol 2022; 27:3106-3120. [PMID: 35341334 DOI: 10.1177/13591053221084494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Whilst parallels have been drawn between Long Covid and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), there is a well-documented history of negative stereotyping and marginalisation of patients with ME/CFS. A socio-politically oriented comparison of scientific, clinical and societal responses to Long Covid and ME/CFS is thus important to prevent similar harms arising among Long Covid patients. We identify four reasons for injustices in the treatment of ME/CFS patients, and discuss the risk of Long Covid following a similar trajectory. We conclude with policy and practice recommendations to help prevent such injustices arising again, including consideration of critical reflexivity in medical education.
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11
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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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12
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Vink M, Vink-Niese A. The Updated NICE Guidance Exposed the Serious Flaws in CBT and Graded Exercise Therapy Trials for ME/CFS. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:898. [PMID: 35628033 PMCID: PMC9141828 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10050898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The British National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recently published its updated guidelines for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). NICE concluded, after an extensive review of the literature, that graded exercise therapy (GET) is harmful and should not be used, and that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is only an adjunctive and not a curative treatment. Leading proponents of the cognitive behavioural model (CBmodel) find it difficult to accept this paradigm shift. In, for example, an article in The Lancet, they try to argue that the new NICE guideline is based on ideology instead of science. In this article we reviewed the evidence they used to support their claims. Our analysis shows that the trials they used in support suffered from serious flaws which included badly designed control groups, relying on subjective primary outcomes in non-blinded studies, including patients in their trials who didn't have the disease under investigation or had a self-limiting disease, selective reporting, outcome switching and making extensive endpoint changes, which created an overlap in entry and recovery criteria, using a post-hoc definition of recovery which included the severely ill, not publishing results that contradict their own conclusion, ignoring their own (objective) null effect, etc. The flaws in these trials all created a bias in favour of the interventions. Despite all these flaws, treatments that are said to lead to recovery in reality do not lead to objective improvement. Therefore, these studies do not support the claim that CBT and GET are effective treatments. Moreover, the arguments that are used to claim that NICE was wrong, in reality, highlight the absence of evidence for the safety and efficacy of CBT and GET and strengthen the decision by NICE to drop CBT and GET as curative treatments for ME/CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Vink
- Independent Researcher, 1096 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Vink M, Vink-Niese F. Is It Useful to Question the Recovery Behaviour of Patients with ME/CFS or Long COVID? Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:392. [PMID: 35207003 PMCID: PMC8872229 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10020392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
For the last few decades, medical guidelines have recommended treating patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) with graded exercise therapy (GET) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Moreover, doctors have questioned the recovery behaviour of these patients and stimulated them to follow these treatments so that they would be able to go back to work. In this article, we reviewed trials of GET and CBT for ME/CFS that reported on work status before and after treatment to answer the question of whether doctors should continue to question the recovery behaviour of patients with ME/CFS. Our review shows that more patients are unable to work after treatment than before treatment with CBT and GET. It also highlights the fact that both treatments are unsafe for patients with ME/CFS. Therefore, questioning the recovery behaviour of patients with ME/CFS is pointless. This confirms the conclusion from the British National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which has recently published its updated ME/CFS guideline and concluded that CBT and GET are not effective and do not lead to recovery. Studies on CBT and GET for long COVID have not yet been published. However, this review offers no support for their use in improving the recovery of patients with an ME/CFS-like illness after infection with COVID-19, nor does it lend any support to the practice of questioning the recovery behaviour of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Vink
- Independent Researcher, 1096 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Bateman L, Bested AC, Bonilla HF, Chheda BV, Chu L, Curtin JM, Dempsey TT, Dimmock ME, Dowell TG, Felsenstein D, Kaufman DL, Klimas NG, Komaroff AL, Lapp CW, Levine SM, Montoya JG, Natelson BH, Peterson DL, Podell RN, Rey IR, Ruhoy IS, Vera-Nunez MA, Yellman BP. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Essentials of Diagnosis and Management. Mayo Clin Proc 2021; 96:2861-2878. [PMID: 34454716 DOI: 10.1016/j.mayocp.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) affecting millions of people worldwide, many clinicians lack the knowledge to appropriately diagnose or manage ME/CFS. Unfortunately, clinical guidance has been scarce, obsolete, or potentially harmful. Consequently, up to 91% of patients in the United States remain undiagnosed, and those diagnosed often receive inappropriate treatment. These problems are of increasing importance because after acute COVID-19, a significant percentage of people remain ill for many months with an illness similar to ME/CFS. In 2015, the US National Academy of Medicine published new evidence-based clinical diagnostic criteria that have been adopted by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Furthermore, the United States and other governments as well as major health care organizations have recently withdrawn graded exercise and cognitive-behavioral therapy as the treatment of choice for patients with ME/CFS. Recently, 21 clinicians specializing in ME/CFS convened to discuss best clinical practices for adults affected by ME/CFS. This article summarizes their top recommendations for generalist and specialist health care providers based on recent scientific progress and decades of clinical experience. There are many steps that clinicians can take to improve the health, function, and quality of life of those with ME/CFS, including those in whom ME/CFS develops after COVID-19. Patients with a lingering illness that follows acute COVID-19 who do not fully meet criteria for ME/CFS may also benefit from these approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alison C Bested
- Integrative Medicine, Dr Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
| | - Hector F Bonilla
- Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA
| | | | - Lily Chu
- Independent Consultant, Burlingame, CA.
| | | | | | | | | | - Donna Felsenstein
- Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | | | - Nancy G Klimas
- Institute for Neuro Immune Medicine, Dr Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
| | | | | | | | - Jose G Montoya
- Dr Jack S. Remington Laboratory for Specialty Diagnostics, Palo Alto Medical Foundation Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Benjamin H Natelson
- Pain & Fatigue Study Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | | | | | - Irma R Rey
- Institute for Neuro Immune Medicine, Dr Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL
| | - Ilene S Ruhoy
- Neurology, Chiari/EDS Center, Mount Sinai South Nassau, Oceanside, NY
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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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16
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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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17
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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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18
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Comella PH, Gonzalez-Kozlova E, Kosoy R, Charney AW, Peradejordi IF, Chandrasekar S, Tyler SR, Wang W, Losic B, Zhu J, Hoffman GE, Kim-Schulze S, Qi J, Patel M, Kasarskis A, Suarez-Farinas M, Gümüş ZH, Argmann C, Merad M, Becker C, Beckmann ND, Schadt EE. A Molecular network approach reveals shared cellular and molecular signatures between chronic fatigue syndrome and other fatiguing illnesses. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2021:2021.01.29.21250755. [PMID: 33564792 PMCID: PMC7872387 DOI: 10.1101/2021.01.29.21250755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
IntroThe molecular mechanisms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS, or Myalgic encephalomyelitis), a disease defined by extreme, long-term fatigue, remain largely uncharacterized, and presently no molecular diagnostic test and no specific treatments exist to diagnose and treat CFS patients. While CFS has historically had an estimated prevalence of 0.1-0.5% [1], concerns of a “long hauler” version of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) that symptomatically overlaps CFS to a significant degree(Supplemental Table-1)and appears to occur in 10% of COVID-19 patients[2], has raised concerns of a larger spike in CFS [3]. Here, we established molecular signatures of CFS and a corresponding network-based disease context from RNA-sequencing data generated on whole blood and FACs sorted specific peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from CFS cases and non-CFS controls. The immune cell type specific molecular signatures of CFS we identified, overlapped molecular signatures from other fatiguing illnesses, demonstrating a common molecular etiology. Further, after constructing a probabilistic causal model of the CFS gene expression data, we identified master regulator genes modulating network states associated with CFS, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip H. Comella
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Edgar Gonzalez-Kozlova
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Roman Kosoy
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Alexander W. Charney
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Irene Font Peradejordi
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
- Cornell Tech at Cornell University, New York, NY, 10044, USA
| | - Shreya Chandrasekar
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
- Cornell Tech at Cornell University, New York, NY, 10044, USA
| | - Scott R. Tyler
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Wenhui Wang
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Bojan Losic
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jun Zhu
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
| | - Gabriel E. Hoffman
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Seunghee Kim-Schulze
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Jingjing Qi
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Manishkumar Patel
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Andrew Kasarskis
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
| | - Mayte Suarez-Farinas
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
| | - Zeynep H. Gümüş
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
| | - Carmen Argmann
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
| | - Miriam Merad
- Human Immune Monitoring Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Precision Immunology Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | - Noam D. Beckmann
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
| | - Eric E. Schadt
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Institute of Data Science and Genomics Technology, New York, NY 10029
- Sema4, a Mount Sinai venture, Stamford CT, 06902, USA
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19
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Wormgoor MEA, Rodenburg SC. The evidence base for physiotherapy in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome when considering post-exertional malaise: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. J Transl Med 2021; 19:1. [PMID: 33397399 PMCID: PMC7780213 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02683-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the inconsistent use of diagnostic criteria in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), it is unsure whether physiotherapeutic management regarded effective in ME/CFS is appropriate for patients diagnosed with criteria that consider post-exertional malaise (PEM) as a hallmark feature. PURPOSE To appraise current evidence of the effects of physiotherapy on symptoms and functioning in ME/CFS patients in view of the significance of PEM in the applied diagnostic criteria for inclusion. METHODS A systematic review of randomized controlled trials published over the last two decades was conducted. Studies evaluating physiotherapeutic interventions for adult ME/CFS patients were included. The diagnostic criteria sets were classified into three groups according to the extent to which the importance of PEM was emphasized: chronic fatigue (CF; PEM not mentioned as a criterion), CFS (PEM included as an optional or minor criterion) or ME (PEM is a required symptom). The main results of included studies were synthesized in relation to the classification of the applied diagnostic criteria. In addition, special attention was given to the tolerability of the interventions. RESULTS Eighteen RCTs were included in the systematic review: three RCTs with CF patients, 14 RCTs with CFS patients and one RCT covering ME patients with PEM. Intervention effects, if any, seemed to disappear with more narrow case definitions, increasing objectivity of the outcome measures and longer follow-up. CONCLUSION Currently, there is no scientific evidence when it comes to effective physiotherapy for ME patients. Applying treatment that seems effective for CF or CFS patients may have adverse consequences for ME patients and should be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjon E A Wormgoor
- Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway.
- Division Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Stavern, Norway.
| | - Sanne C Rodenburg
- Department of Physiotherapy, Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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20
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Maroti D, Johansson R. Is Cognitive Change Necessary to Alleviate Symptoms in Patients With Functional Somatic Syndrome? Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:781083. [PMID: 34795604 PMCID: PMC8593391 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.781083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Maroti
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Robert Johansson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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21
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Cullinan J, Ní Chomhraí O, Kindlon T, Black L, Casey B. Understanding the economic impact of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome in Ireland: a qualitative study. HRB Open Res 2020; 3:88. [PMID: 33659857 PMCID: PMC7898356 DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13181.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a disabling and complex chronic disease of unknown origin, whose symptoms, severity, and progression are extremely variable. Despite being relatively common, the condition is poorly understood and routine diagnostic tests and biomarkers are unavailable. There is no evidence on the economic impact of ME/CFS in Ireland. Methods: Adopting a patient and public involvement approach, we undertook three semi-structured focus groups, which together included 15 ME/CFS patients and 6 informal carers, to consider costs related to ME/CFS in Ireland, including how and why they arise. Focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, and we employed thematic analysis following the approach set out in Braun and Clarke (2006). Results: Themes from the data were: (1) Healthcare barriers and costs; (2) Socioeconomic costs; (3) Costs of disability; and, (4) Carer-related costs. Patient participants described a range of barriers to effective healthcare that led to extra costs, including delays getting a diagnosis, poor awareness/understanding of the condition by healthcare professionals, and a lack of effective treatments. These were linked to poor prognosis of the illness by participants who, as a result, faced a range of indirect costs, including poorer labour market and education outcomes, and lower economic well-being. Direct extra costs of disability were also described, often due to difficulties accessing appropriate services and supports. Informal carer participants described a range of impacts, including time costs, burnout, and impacts on work and study. Conclusions: The data suggests that ME/CFS patients face a wide range of costs, while there are also wider societal costs in the form of costs to the health service, lost productivity, and impacts on informal carers. These results will inform ongoing research that aims to quantify the economic burden of ME/CFS in Ireland and raise awareness of the illness amongst healthcare providers and policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Cullinan
- School of Business and Economics, NUI Galway, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | | | | | | | - Bláthín Casey
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland
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22
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Beliefs about sharing illness experiences in chronic fatigue syndrome: the role of interpersonal trust and personality. HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY REPORT 2020. [DOI: 10.5114/hpr.2020.99395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundDisclosure of illness and illness experiences can be complicated for patients diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome due to the stigma associated with the illness. In this study, we evaluate the psychometric properties of the Beliefs about Sharing Illness Experiences (BASIE) scale in chronic fatigue patients. In addition, we inves-tigate whether interpersonal trust and personality characteristics predict self-disclosure in chronic fatigue pa-tients.Participants and procedureThe research was carried out in Rasht City, Iran. Participants were patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (N = 280) who were referred to Rasht pain management clinics in 2019. The psychometric properties of the BASIE scale were evaluated using content validity (CVI and CVR), exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirma-tory factor analysis (CFA), and Cronbach’s α. In addition, Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression were used to test the roles of interpersonal trust and personality in predicting willingness to share illness experiences in chronic fatigue syndrome patients.ResultsA CVI of .91 and CVR of .92 showed strong content validly for the BASIE scale. EFA and CFA supported a two-factor structure of the instrument. The Cronbach’s α of .94 confirmed strong reliability. Multiple regression anal-ysis revealed that positive beliefs about sharing illness experiences were predicted by higher interpersonal trust, higher extraversion, and lower neuroticism.ConclusionsThe BASIE scale appears to be an appropriate tool for measuring chronic fatigue syndrome patients’ beliefs about sharing illness experiences. Also, interpersonal trust, extraversion, and neuroticism play important roles in sharing illness experiences. These findings may be helpful in the management of chronic fatigue syndrome and other stigmatized illnesses.
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23
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Byrne EA. Striking the balance with epistemic injustice in healthcare: the case of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. MEDICINE, HEALTH CARE, AND PHILOSOPHY 2020; 23:371-379. [PMID: 32170570 PMCID: PMC7426317 DOI: 10.1007/s11019-020-09945-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Miranda Fricker's influential concept of epistemic injustice (Oxford University Press, Oxford, 2007) has recently seen application to many areas of interest, with an increasing body of healthcare research using the concept of epistemic injustice in order to develop both general frameworks and accounts of specific medical conditions and patient groups. This paper illuminates tensions that arise between taking steps to protect against committing epistemic injustice in healthcare, and taking steps to understand the complexity of one's predicament and treat it accordingly. Work on epistemic injustice is therefore at risk of obfuscating legitimate and potentially fruitful inquiry. This paper uses Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis as a case study, but I suggest that the key problems identified could apply to other cases within healthcare, such as those classed as Medically Unexplained Illnesses, Functional Neurological Disorders and Psychiatric Disorders. Future work on epistemic injustice in healthcare must recognise and attend to this tension to protect against unsatisfactory attempts to correct epistemic injustice.
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24
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Geraghty K. The negative impact of the psychiatric model of chronic fatigue syndrome on doctors’ understanding and management of the illness. FATIGUE: BIOMEDICINE, HEALTH & BEHAVIOR 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2020.1834295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Keith Geraghty
- Centre for Primary Care, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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25
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Friedberg F, Sunnquist M, Nacul L. Rethinking the Standard of Care for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. J Gen Intern Med 2020; 35:906-909. [PMID: 31637650 PMCID: PMC7080939 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-019-05375-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luis Nacul
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Complex Chronic Diseases Program, British Columbia Women's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
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26
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Geraghty K, Scott MJ. Treating medically unexplained symptoms via improving access to psychological therapy (IAPT): major limitations identified. BMC Psychol 2020; 8:13. [PMID: 32020880 PMCID: PMC7001321 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-020-0380-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving Access to Psychological Therapies is a UK Government funded initiative to widen access to psychological treatment for a range of common mental health complaints, such as depression and anxiety. More recently, the service has begun to treat patients with medically unexplained symptoms. This paper reports on a review of treatment protocols and early treatment data for medically unexplained symptoms, specifically the illness myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. MAIN TEXT A series of seven core problems and failings are identified, including an unproven treatment rationale, a weak and contested evidence-base, biases in treatment promotion, exaggeration of recovery claims, under-reporting of drop-out rates, and a significant risk of misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. CONCLUSIONS There is a pressing need for independent oversight of this service, specifically evaluation of service performance and methods used to collect and report treatment outcomes. This service offers uniform psycho-behavioural therapy that may not meet the needs of many patients with medically unexplained health complaints. Psychotherapy should not become a default when patients' physical symptoms remain unexplained, and patients should be fully informed of the rationale behind psychotherapy, before agreeing to take part. Patients who reject psychotherapy or do not meet selection criteria should be offered appropriate medical and psychological support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Geraghty
- Centre for Primary Care, Division of Health Sciences and Population Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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