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Hsieh HC, Chang WP, Huang PJ, Wang CH, Lin YH. Effectiveness of Exercise Interventions on Body Composition, Exercise Capacity, Fatigue, and Quality of Life in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Dig Dis Sci 2024:10.1007/s10620-024-08447-0. [PMID: 38656415 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-024-08447-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diminished muscle protein synthesis in cirrhosis leads to reduced strength and mass, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life. AIMS This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of exercise intervention in body composition, exercise capacity, fatigue, and quality of life in patients with liver cirrhosis. METHODS A systematic search of medical databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and CINAHL, was executed from their inception to November 2022. The inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials comparing exercise interventions with a control group that did not receive exercise interventions. RESULTS From the initially identified 2,565 articles, eight studies with a total of 220 patients were eligible for inclusion in this meta-analysis. According to the meta-analysis, exercise significantly improved the six-minute walk distance (6MWD) by 68.93 m (95% CI 14.29-123.57) compared to the control group. Furthermore, the subgroup analysis revealed that combing exercise with amino acid supplementation had a greater positive effect on the 6MWD (MD = 144.72, 95% CI 87.44-202.01). Exercise also significantly increased thigh circumference (MD = 1.26, 95% CI 0.12-2.39) and the thigh ultrasound average compression index (MD = 0.07, 95% CI 0.00-0.14). Moreover, exercise significantly decreased fatigue levels by 0.7 points in patients with liver cirrhosis (95% CI 0.38-1.03). However, no significant effects were observed on body mass index (BMI), fat mass, fat-free mass, and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Exercise can improve exercise capacity, thigh muscle thickness, and fatigue in patients with cirrhosis, but it does not have a significant impact on fat mass, BMI, or quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huei-Chi Hsieh
- Department of Nursing, Hsinchu MacKay Memorial Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Pei Chang
- Department of Nursing, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Po-Jui Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 110301, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hui Wang
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Huei Lin
- Post-Baccalaureate Program in Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wu-Hsing Street, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- Research Center in Nursing Clinical Practice, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Department of Nursing, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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2
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Peo LC, Wiehler K, Paulick J, Gerrer K, Leone A, Viereck A, Haegele M, Stojanov S, Warlitz C, Augustin S, Alberer M, Hattesohl DBR, Froehlich L, Scheibenbogen C, Jason LA, Mihatsch LL, Pricoco R, Behrends U. Pediatric and adult patients with ME/CFS following COVID-19: A structured approach to diagnosis using the Munich Berlin Symptom Questionnaire (MBSQ). Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:1265-1276. [PMID: 38095713 PMCID: PMC10951047 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05351-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
A subset of patients with post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) fulfill the clinical criteria of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). To establish the diagnosis of ME/CFS for clinical and research purposes, comprehensive scores have to be evaluated. We developed the Munich Berlin Symptom Questionnaires (MBSQs) and supplementary scoring sheets (SSSs) to allow for a rapid evaluation of common ME/CFS case definitions. The MBSQs were applied to young patients with chronic fatigue and post-exertional malaise (PEM) who presented to the MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC). Trials were retrospectively registered (NCT05778006, NCT05638724). Using the MBSQs and SSSs, we report on ten patients aged 11 to 25 years diagnosed with ME/CFS after asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection or mild to moderate COVID-19. Results from their MBSQs and from well-established patient-reported outcome measures indicated severe impairments of daily activities and health-related quality of life. Conclusions: ME/CFS can follow SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients younger than 18 years, rendering structured diagnostic approaches most relevant for pediatric PCC clinics. The MBSQs and SSSs represent novel diagnostic tools that can facilitate the diagnosis of ME/CFS in children, adolescents, and adults with PCC and other post-infection or post-vaccination syndromes. What is Known: • ME/CFS is a debilitating disease with increasing prevalence due to COVID-19. For diagnosis, a differential diagnostic workup is required, including the evaluation of clinical ME/CFS criteria. • ME/CFS after COVID-19 has been reported in adults but not in pediatric patients younger than 19 years. What is New: • We present the novel Munich Berlin Symptom Questionnaires (MBSQs) as diagnostic tools to assess common ME/CFS case definitions in pediatric and adult patients with post-COVID-19 condition and beyond. • Using the MBSQs, we diagnosed ten patients aged 11 to 25 years with ME/CFS after asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection or mild to moderate COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura-Carlotta Peo
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katharina Wiehler
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Johannes Paulick
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Katrin Gerrer
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ariane Leone
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anja Viereck
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Haegele
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia Stojanov
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Child and Adolescent Psychsomatics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Cordula Warlitz
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia Augustin
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Alberer
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Laura Froehlich
- Research Center CATALPA, FernUniversität in Hagen, Hagen, Germany
| | - 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), Berlin, Germany
| | - Leonard A Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, 60614, USA
| | - Lorenz L Mihatsch
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Rafael Pricoco
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Medical Immunology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Uta Behrends
- MRI Chronic Fatigue Center for Young People (MCFC), Pediatrics, Children's Hospital, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich, Germany.
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3
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Rosenberg M, Bar-Shalita T, Weiss M, Rahav G, Avrech Bar M. Associations between daily routines and social support among women with chronic fatigue syndrome. Scand J Occup Ther 2023; 30:1037-1046. [PMID: 37094093 DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2023.2200580] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterised by extreme fatigue, as well as physical and cognitive symptoms. CFS is thrice as prevalent in women than in men. OBJECTIVE To compare women with and without CFS concerning social support and participation in daily routine occupations, and to assess the relationships between the two variables among women with CFS. METHODS This study included 110 women aged 24-69: 41 were diagnosed with CFS and 64 were not diagnosed with CFS. Participants completed the Occupational Questionnaire and the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Social Support Survey. RESULTS Women with CFS reported lower participation in instrumental activities of daily living and work occupations than women without CFS. However, they spend more time resting and enjoying it. In addition, they reported less social support than women without CFS. Positive correlations were found between the number of close friends and time spent in play and leisure occupations and a negative correlation with sleep/rest. CONCLUSIONS Women with CFS participate less in IADL and work occupations and more in rest/sleep than women without CFS and their social support is attenuated. SIGNIFICANCE Intervention plans should be developed for women with CFS, focussing on expanding their participation while considering their social support resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morit Rosenberg
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Tami Bar-Shalita
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Miryam Weiss
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Galia Rahav
- Infectious Disease Unit and Laboratories, Sheba Medical Center, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Michal Avrech Bar
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
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4
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Porter N, Jason LA. Mindfulness Meditation Interventions for Long COVID: Biobehavioral Gene Expression and Neuroimmune Functioning. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2022; 18:2599-2626. [PMID: 36387947 PMCID: PMC9653042 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s379653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Some individuals infected with SARS CoV-2 have developed Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS CoV-2 infection (PASC) or what has been referred to as Long COVID. Efforts are underway to find effective treatment strategies for those with Long COVID. One possible approach involves alternative medical interventions, which have been widely used to treat and manage symptoms of a variety of medical problems including post-viral infections. Meditation has been found to reduce fatigue and unrefreshing sleep, and for those with post-viral infections, it has enhanced immunity, and reduced inflammatory-driven pathogenesis. Our article summarizes the literature on what is known about mindfulness meditation interventions, and reviews evidence on how it may apply to those with Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Evidence is reviewed suggesting effective and sustainable outcomes may be achieved for symptomatology and underlying pathology of post-viral fatigue (PASC and ME/CFS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Porter
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Leonard A Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
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5
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Jason LA, Cotler J, Islam MF, Sunnquist M, Katz BZ. Risks for Developing Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in College Students Following Infectious Mononucleosis: A Prospective Cohort Study. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e3740-e3746. [PMID: 33367564 PMCID: PMC8664491 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) involves severe fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive impairment, leading to functional difficulties; prior studies have not evaluated risk factors with behavioral and immune data collected before developing ME/CFS. Up to 5% of university students develop infectious mononucleosis (IM) annually, and 9-12% meet criteria for ME/CFS 6 months later. We sought to determine predictors of ME/CFS. METHODS We enrolled college students at the start of the school year (time 1), identified those who developed IM (time 2), and followed them for 6 months (time 3), identifying 3 groups: those who developed ME/CFS, severe ME/CFS (meeting >1 set of criteria), and who were asymptomatic. We conducted 8 behavioral and psychological surveys and analyzed cytokines at 3 time points. RESULTS 238 of the 4501 students (5.3%) developed IM; 6 months later, 55 of the 238 (23%) met criteria for ME/CFS and 157 (66%) were asymptomatic. 67 of the 157 asymptomatic students served as controls. Students with severe ME/CFS were compared with students who were asymptomatic at 3 time points. The former group was not different from the latter group at time 1 (prior to developing IM) in stress, coping, anxiety, or depression but were different in several behavioral measures and had significantly lower levels of IL-6 and IL-13. At time 2 (when they developed IM), the 2 ME/CFS groups tended to have more autonomic complaints and behavioral symptoms while the severe-ME/CFS group had higher levels of IL-12 and lower levels of IL-13 than the recovered group. CONCLUSIONS At baseline, those who developed ME/CFS had more physical symptoms and immune irregularities, but not more psychological symptoms, than those who recovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard A Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Joseph Cotler
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mohammed F Islam
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Madison Sunnquist
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ben Z Katz
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Zinn MA, Jason LA. Cortical autonomic network connectivity predicts symptoms in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Int J Psychophysiol 2021; 170:89-101. [PMID: 34662673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) represents a significant public health challenge given the presence of many unexplained patient symptoms. Research has shown that many features in ME/CFS may result from a dysfunctional autonomic nervous system (ANS). We explored the role of the cortical autonomic network (CAN) involved in higher-order control of ANS functioning in 34 patients with ME/CFS and 34 healthy controls under task-free conditions. All participants underwent resting-state quantitative electroencephalographic (qEEG) scalp recordings during an eyes-closed condition. Source analysis was performed using exact low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (eLORETA), and lagged coherence was used to estimate intrinsic functional connectivity between each node across 7 frequency bands: delta (1-3 Hz), theta (4-7 Hz), alpha-1 (8-10 Hz), alpha-2 (10-12 Hz), beta-1 (13-18 Hz), beta-2 (19-21 Hz), and beta-3 (22-30 Hz). Symptom ratings were measured using the DePaul Symptom Questionnaire and the Short Form (SF-36) health survey. Graph theoretical analysis of weighted, undirected connections revealed significant group differences in baseline CAN organization. Regression results showed that cognitive, affective, and somatomotor symptom cluster ratings were associated with alteration to CAN topology in patients, depending on the frequency band. These findings provide evidence for reduced higher-order homeostatic regulation and adaptability in ME/CFS. If confirmed, these findings address the CAN as a potential therapeutic target for managing patient symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Zinn
- DePaul University, Center for Community Research, 990 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60614, United States of America.
| | - Leonard A Jason
- DePaul University, Center for Community Research, 990 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60614, United States of America
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7
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A Comprehensive Examination of Severely Ill ME/CFS Patients. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9101290. [PMID: 34682970 PMCID: PMC8535418 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9101290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One in four myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) patients are estimated to be severely affected by the disease, and these house-bound or bedbound patients are currently understudied. Here, we report a comprehensive examination of the symptoms and clinical laboratory tests of a cohort of severely ill patients and healthy controls. The greatly reduced quality of life of the patients was negatively correlated with clinical depression. The most troublesome symptoms included fatigue (85%), pain (65%), cognitive impairment (50%), orthostatic intolerance (45%), sleep disturbance (35%), post-exertional malaise (30%), and neurosensory disturbance (30%). Sleep profiles and cognitive tests revealed distinctive impairments. Lower morning cortisol level and alterations in its diurnal rhythm were observed in the patients, and antibody and antigen measurements showed no evidence for acute infections by common viral or bacterial pathogens. These results highlight the urgent need of developing molecular diagnostic tests for ME/CFS. In addition, there was a striking similarity in symptoms between long COVID and ME/CFS, suggesting that studies on the mechanism and treatment of ME/CFS may help prevent and treat long COVID and vice versa.
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8
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Pavlov AI, Ivolgin AF, Katenko SV, Eremin MN, Molodova AI, Levchenko OB, Karakozov AG. Diagnostics and treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease with concomitant asthenic syndrome. TERAPEVT ARKH 2021; 93:890-896. [DOI: 10.26442/00403660.2021.08.200974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Aim. Analysis of the effectiveness of therapy for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with severe asthenic syndrome.
Materials and methods. In the period from 2017 to 2019, on the basis of the gastroenterology center of the Vishnevsky 3-rd Central Military Clinical Hospital, 247 patients with NAFLD, including those at the stage of steatohepatitis, and severe asthenic syndrome were examined and treated. The main group included 124 patients, the control group 123 patients. All patients underwent complex laboratory and instrumental diagnostics and neuropsychological research using the subjective asthenia assessment scale (MFI-20). In both groups, domestic drugs were included in the therapy regimen: from the 1st to the 10th day, Heptrong solution 3 ml intramuscularly in the morning; from the 1st to the 60th day UDCA 250 mg orally, 3 capsules at bedtime, Omega-3 forte 1000 mg, 2 capsules in the morning with meals. In group I patients received additionally from the 1st to the 10th day intravenous drip Cytoflavin 10 ml + 0.9% NaCl solution 200 ml; pentoxifylline solution 5 ml + 0.9% NaCl solution 200 ml. Then, from the 11th to the 60th day, Cytoflavin inside, 2 tablets 2 times a day. Pentoxifylline inside 400 mg 1 tablet 3 times a day. All patients underwent neuropsychological examination using the subjective asthenia rating scale (MFI-20).
Results. The effectiveness of treatment in patients of both groups was assessed by clinical, laboratory data and neuropsychological studies. In the main group, a significant reduction in asthenic syndrome was achieved against the background of diagnosed NAFLD compared with the control group.
Conclusion. The early inclusion of patients with NAFLD and severe asthenic syndrome in the treatment regimen, in addition to the basic therapy of Cytoflavin, achieved a significantly high therapeutic effect in the form of normalization of the main clinical, laboratory and instrumental parameters, as well as a significant reduction in the manifestations of asthenia.
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9
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Ohlendorf V, Schäfer A, Christensen S, Heyne R, Naumann U, Link R, Herold C, Schiffelholz W, Günther R, Cornberg M, Serfert Y, Maasoumy B, Wedemeyer H, Kraus MR. Only partial improvement in health-related quality of life after treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection with direct acting antivirals in a real-world setting-results from the German Hepatitis C-Registry (DHC-R). J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:1206-1218. [PMID: 34003549 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Improvement of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is frequently reported as a benefit when treating hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) with direct acting antivirals (DAA). As most of the available data were obtained from clinical trials, limited generalizability to the real-world population might exist. This study aimed to investigate the impact of DAA therapy on changes in HRQoL in a real-world setting. HRQoL of 1180 participants of the German Hepatitis C-Registry was assessed by Short-Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaires. Scores at post-treatment weeks 12-24 (FU12/24) were compared to baseline (BL). Changes of ≥2.5 in mental and physical component summary scores (MCS and PCS) were defined as a minimal clinical important difference (MCID). Potential predictors of HRQoL changes were analysed. Overall, a statistically significant increase in HRQoL after DAA therapy was observed, that was robust among various subgroups. However, roughly half of all patients failed to achieve a clinically important improvement in MCS and PCS. Low MCS (p < .001, OR = 0.925) and PCS (p < .001, OR = 0.899) BL levels were identified as predictors for achieving a clinically important improvement. In contrast, presence of fatigue (p = .023, OR = 1.518), increased GPT levels (p = .005, OR = 0.626) and RBV containing therapy regimens (p = .001, OR = 1.692) were associated with a clinically important decline in HRQoL after DAA therapy. In conclusion, DAA treatment is associated with an overall increase of HRQoL in HCV-infected patients. Nevertheless, roughly half of the patients fail to achieve a clinically important improvement. Especially patients with a low HRQoL seem to benefit most from the modern therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arne Schäfer
- Diabetes-Klinik Bad Mergentheim, Bad Mergentheim, Germany
| | - Stefan Christensen
- CIM Münster, Münster, Germany.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Münster University Hospital (UKM), Münster, Germany
| | | | | | - Ralph Link
- MVZ-Offenburg GmbH /St. Josefs-Klinik, Offenburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Rainer Günther
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH, Kiel, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine I, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH, Kiel, Germany
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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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11
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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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12
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van Campen C(LMC, Rowe PC, Visser FC. Validation of the Severity of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by Other Measures than History: Activity Bracelet, Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing and a Validated Activity Questionnaire: SF-36. Healthcare (Basel) 2020; 8:healthcare8030273. [PMID: 32823979 PMCID: PMC7551321 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare8030273] [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] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a severe and disabling chronic disease. Grading patient’s symptom and disease severity for comparison and therapeutic decision-making is necessary. Clinical grading that depends on patient self-report is subject to inter-individual variability. Having more objective measures to grade and confirm clinical grading would be desirable. Therefore, the aim of this study was to validate the clinical severity grading that has been proposed by the authors of the ME International Consensus Criteria (ICC) using more standardized measures like questionnaires, and objective measures such as physical activity tracking and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Methods and results: The clinical database of a subspecialty ME/CFS clinic was searched for patients who had completed the SF 36 questionnaire, worn a SensewearTM armband for five days, and undergone a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Only patients who completed all three investigations within 3 months from each other—to improve the likelihood of stable disease—were included in the analysis. Two-hundred-eighty-nine patients were analyzed: 121 were graded as mild, 98 as moderate and 70 as having severe disease. The mean (SD) physical activity subscale of the SF-36 was 70 (11) for mild, 43 (8) for moderate and 15 (10) for severe ME/CFS patients. The mean (SD) number of steps per day was 8235 (1004) for mild, 5195 (1231) for moderate and 2031 (824) for severe disease. The mean (SD) percent predicted oxygen consumption at the ventilatory threshold was 47 (11)% for mild, 38 (7)% for moderate and 30 (7)% for severe disease. The percent peak oxygen consumption was 90 (14)% for mild, 64 (8)% for moderate and 48 (9)% for severe disease. All comparisons were p < 0.0001. Conclusion: This study confirms the validity of the ICC severity grading. Grading assigned by clinicians on the basis of patient self-report created groups that differed significantly on measures of activity using the SF-36 physical function subscale and objective measures of steps per day and exercise capacity. There was variability in function within severity grading groups, so grading based on self-report can be strengthened by the use of these supplementary measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter C. Rowe
- Department of Paediatrics, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
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13
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van Campen CMC, Rowe PC, Verheugt FWA, Visser FC. Physical activity measures in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: correlations between peak oxygen consumption, the physical functioning scale of the SF-36 questionnaire, and the number of steps from an activity meter. J Transl Med 2020; 18:228. [PMID: 32513266 PMCID: PMC7282044 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02397-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most studies to assess effort intolerance in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) have used questionnaires. Few studies have compared questionnaires with objective measures like an actometer or an exercise test. This study compared three measures of physical activity in ME/CFS patients: the physical functioning scale (PFS) of the SF-36, the number of steps/day (Steps) using an actometer, and the %peak VO2 of a cardiopulmonary stress test. Methods Female ME/CFS patients were selected from a clinical database if the three types of measurements were available, and the interval between measurements was ≤ 3 months. Data from the three measures were compared by linear regression. Results In 99 female patients the three different measures were linearly, significantly, and positively correlated (PFS vs Steps, PFS vs %peak VO2 and Steps vs %peak VO2: all P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed that the relations between the three measures were not different in patients with versus without fibromyalgia and with versus without a maximal exercise effort (RER ≥ 1.1). In 20 patients re-evaluated for symptom worsening, the mean of all three measures was significantly lower (P < 0.0001), strengthening the observation of the relations between them. Despite the close correlation, we observed a large variation between the three measures in individual patients. Conclusions Given the large variation in ME/CFS patients, the use of only one type of measurement is inadequate. Integrating the three modalities may be useful for patient care by detecting overt discrepancies in activity and may inform studies that compare methods of improving exercise capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M C van Campen
- Stichting CardioZorg, Planetenweg 5, 2132 HN, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
| | - Peter C Rowe
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
| | - Freek W A Verheugt
- Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis (OLVG), Oosterpark 9, 1091 AC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frans C Visser
- Stichting CardioZorg, Planetenweg 5, 2132 HN, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
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14
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Huth TK, Eaton-Fitch N, Staines D, Marshall-Gradisnik S. A systematic review of metabolomic dysregulation in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease (CFS/ME/SEID). J Transl Med 2020; 18:198. [PMID: 32404171 PMCID: PMC7222338 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02356-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease (CFS/ME/SEID) is a complex illness that has an unknown aetiology. It has been proposed that metabolomics may contribute to the illness pathogenesis of CFS/ME/SEID. In metabolomics, the systematic identification of measurable changes in small molecule metabolite products have been identified in cases of both monogenic and heterogenic diseases. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to evaluate if there is any evidence of metabolomics contributing to the pathogenesis of CFS/ME/SEID. Methods PubMed, Scopus, EBSCOHost (Medline) and EMBASE were searched using medical subject headings terms for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, metabolomics and metabolome to source papers published from 1994 to 2020. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to identify studies reporting on metabolites measured in blood and urine samples from CFS/ME/SEID patients compared with healthy controls. The Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist was used to complete a quality assessment for all the studies included in this review. Results 11 observational case control studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. The primary outcome of metabolite measurement in blood samples of CFS/ME/SEID patients was reported in ten studies. The secondary outcome of urine metabolites was measured in three of the included studies. No studies were excluded from this review based on a low-quality assessment score, however there was inconsistency in the scientific research design of the included studies. Metabolites associated with the amino acid pathway were the most commonly impaired with significant results in seven out of the 10 studies. However, no specific metabolite was consistently impaired across all of the studies. Urine metabolite results were also inconsistent. Conclusion The findings of this systematic review reports that a lack of consistency with scientific research design provides little evidence for metabolomics to be clearly defined as a contributing factor to the pathogenesis of CFS/ME/SEID. Further research using the same CFS/ME/SEID diagnostic criteria, metabolite analysis method and control of the confounding factors that influence metabolite levels are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teilah Kathryn Huth
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia. .,School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Natalie Eaton-Fitch
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Donald Staines
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Sonya Marshall-Gradisnik
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
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15
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Eaton-Fitch N, Johnston SC, Zalewski P, Staines D, Marshall-Gradisnik S. Health-related quality of life in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: an Australian cross-sectional study. Qual Life Res 2020; 29:1521-1531. [PMID: 31970624 PMCID: PMC7253372 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-019-02411-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a serious and debilitating disorder associated with significant disruptions in daily life including. This study aimed to examine the impact of sociodemographic and patient symptom characteristics on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of Australians with ME/CFS. METHODS Self-reported data collected from 480 individuals diagnosed with ME/CFS were obtained between August 2014 and August 2018. This cross-sectional survey analysed sociodemographic, symptom characteristics and HRQoL according to the 36-Item Health Survey (SF-36). Multivariate linear regression models were used to determine ME/CFS symptoms associated with eight domains of HRQoL. RESULTS Reported HRQoL was significantly impaired in ME/CFS patients across all domains compared with the general population. Scores were the lowest for physical role (4.11 ± 15.07) and energy/fatigue (13.54 ± 13.94). Associations with females, higher body mass index (BMI), employment status, cognitive difficulties, sensory disturbances and cardiovascular symptoms were observed in the physical functioning domain. Impaired pain domain scores were associated with high BMI, annual visits to their general practitioner, flu-like symptoms and fluctuations in body temperature. Reduced well-being scores were associated with smoking status, psychiatric comorbidity, cognitive difficulties, sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal difficulties. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that ME/CFS has a profound and negative impact on HRQoL in an Australian cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Eaton-Fitch
- School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia. .,National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia. .,Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.
| | - S C Johnston
- School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.,National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.,Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - P Zalewski
- Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.,Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Ergonomy, Uniwersytet Mikolaja Kopernika Collegium Medicum, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - D Staines
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.,Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - S Marshall-Gradisnik
- National Centre for Neuroimmunology and Emerging Diseases, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.,Consortium Health International for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
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16
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Scartozzi S, Sunnquist M, Jason LA. Myalgic encephalomyelitis and chronic fatigue syndrome case definitions: effects of requiring a substantial reduction in functioning. FATIGUE-BIOMEDICINE HEALTH AND BEHAVIOR 2019; 7:59-68. [PMID: 31788347 DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2019.1600825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Background Current case definitions for myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) require an individual to report a 'substantial reduction' in activity levels, when compared to premorbid functioning. However, little guidance is provided on how to measure these reductions, as well as what level of reduction should be deemed 'substantial,' leading to inconsistencies in how this criterion is applied across research settings. Purpose The current study examined the influence of substantial reduction criterion on case definitions. Method The current study analyzed an international convenience sample of 1002 individuals with ME or CFS, 53 healthy controls, and 260 controls with other chronic illnesses. Results Findings indicated that the utility of the substantial reduction criterion varied by case definition, with more stringent case definitions not needing this criterion to identify cases. Conclusion These results suggest that the requirement of a substantial reduction in functioning may be redundant when case definitions specify that individuals must endorse a set of core symptoms at specified frequency and severity levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Leonard A Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA
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17
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Kerr K, Morse G, Graves D, Zuo F, Lipowicz A, Carpenter DO. A Detoxification Intervention for Gulf War Illness: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E4143. [PMID: 31661809 PMCID: PMC6862571 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16214143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 30% of the 700,000 US veterans of the 1990-1991 Persian Gulf War developed multiple persistent symptoms called Gulf War illness. While the etiology is uncertain, several toxic exposures including pesticides and chemical warfare agents have shown associations. There is no effective medical treatment. An intervention to enhance detoxification developed by Hubbard has improved quality of life and/or reduced body burdens in other cohorts. We evaluated its feasibility and efficacy in ill Gulf War (GW) veterans in a randomized, waitlist-controlled, pilot study at a community-based rehabilitation facility in the United States. Eligible participants (n = 32) were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 22) or a four-week waitlist control (n = 10). The daily 4-6 week intervention consisted of exercise, sauna-induced sweating, crystalline nicotinic acid and other supplements. Primary outcomes included recruitment, retention and safety; and efficacy was measured via Veteran's Short Form-36 (SF-36) quality of life, McGill pain, multidimensional fatigue inventory questionnaires and neuropsychological batteries. Scoring of outcomes was blinded. All 32 completed the trial and 21 completed 3-month follow-up. Mean SF-36 physical component summary score after the intervention was 6.9 (95% CI; -0.3, 14.2) points higher compared to waitlist control and 11 of 16 quality of life, pain and fatigue measures improved, with no serious adverse events. Most improvements were retained after 3 months. The Hubbard regimen was feasible, safe and might offer relief for symptoms of GW illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Kerr
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada.
| | - Gayle Morse
- Department of Psychology, The Sage Colleges, Troy, NY 12180, USA.
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Albany, NY 12144, USA.
| | - Donald Graves
- Department of Psychology, The Sage Colleges, Troy, NY 12180, USA.
| | - Fei Zuo
- Applied Health Research Centre, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 1B1, Canada.
| | - Alain Lipowicz
- Trillium Gift of Life Network, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Toronto, ON M5G 2C9, Canada.
| | - David O Carpenter
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Albany, NY 12144, USA.
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18
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Groven KS, Dahl-Michelsen T. Recovering from chronic fatigue syndrome as an intra-active process. Health Care Women Int 2019; 43:42-53. [DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2019.1663195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Synne Groven
- Faculty of Health, Institute of Physiotherapy, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tone Dahl-Michelsen
- Faculty of Health, Institute of Physiotherapy, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
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19
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Gerber LH, Weinstein AA, Mehta R, Younossi ZM. Importance of fatigue and its measurement in chronic liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:3669-3683. [PMID: 31391765 PMCID: PMC6676553 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i28.3669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms of fatigue in the group of people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis are protean. The liver is central in the pathogenesis of fatigue because it uniquely regulates much of the storage, release and production of substrate for energy generation. It is exquisitely sensitive to the feedback controlling the uptake and release of these energy generation substrates. Metabolic contributors to fatigue, beginning with the uptake of substrate from the gut, the passage through the portal system to hepatic storage and release of energy to target organs (muscle and brain) are central to understanding fatigue in patients with chronic liver disease. Inflammation either causing or resulting from chronic liver disease contributes to fatigue, although inflammation has not been demonstrated to be causal. It is this unique combination of factors, the nexus of metabolic abnormality and the inflammatory burden of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis that creates pathways to different types of fatigue. Many use the terms central and peripheral fatigue. Central fatigue is characterized by a lack of self-motivation and can manifest both in physical and mental activities. Peripheral fatigue is classically manifested by neuromuscular dysfunction and muscle weakness. Therefore, the distinction is often seen as a difference between intention (central fatigue) versus ability (peripheral fatigue). New approaches to measuring fatigue include the use of objective measures as well as patient reported outcomes. These measures have improved the precision with which we are able to describe fatigue. The measures of fatigue severity and its impact on usual daily routines in this population have also been improved, and they are more generally accepted as reliable and sensitive. Several approaches to evaluating fatigue and developing endpoints for treatment have relied of biosignatures associated with fatigue. These have been used singly or in combination and include: physical performance measures, cognitive performance measures, mood/behavioral measures, brain imaging and serological measures. Treatment with non-pharmacological agents have been shown to be effective in symptom reduction, whereas pharmacological agents have not been shown effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn H Gerber
- Department of Medicine, Beatty Center for Liver and Obesity Research, Inova Health System, Falls Church, VA 22042, United States
| | - Ali A Weinstein
- Center for the Study of Chronic Illness and Disability, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, United States
| | - Rohini Mehta
- Beatty Center for Liver and Obesity Research, Inova Health System, Falls Church, VA 22042, United States
| | - Zobair M Younossi
- Department of Medicine, Beatty Center for Liver and Obesity Research, Inova Health System, Falls Church, VA 22042, United States
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20
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Castro-Marrero J, Faro M, Zaragozá MC, Aliste L, de Sevilla TF, Alegre J. Unemployment and work disability in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis: a community-based cross-sectional study from Spain. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:840. [PMID: 31253111 PMCID: PMC6599355 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7225-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Few reports have examined the association between unemployment and work disability in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). This study explored the key determinants of work disability in a CFS/ME cohort. Methods A community-based prospective study included 1086 CFS/ME patients aged 18–65 years. Demographic and clinical characteristics and outcome measures were recorded. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify key risk indicators of work disability. Results Four hundred and fifty patients with CFS/ME were employed (41.4%) and 636 were unemployed (58.6%). Older age at pain onset (OR: 1.44; 95% CI: 1. 12–1.84, autonomic dysfunction (OR: 2.21; 95% CI: 1.71–2.87), neurological symptom (OR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1. 30–2.13) and higher scores for fatigue (OR: 2.61; 95% CI: 2.01–3.39), pain (OR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.47–2.97), depression (OR: 1.98; 95% CI: 1. 20–3.26), psychopathology (OR: 1.98; 95% CI: 1.51–2.61) and sleep dysfunction (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1. 14–1.90) were all associated with a higher risk of work disability due to illness. Conclusions Using an explanatory approach, our findings suggest that unemployment is consistently associated with an increased risk of work disability due to CFS/ME, although further more rigorous research is now needed to help in targeting interventions at the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Castro-Marrero
- CFS/ME Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital Research Institute, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Passeig de Vall d'Hebron 119-129, E-08035, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Mónica Faro
- EAP CAP Terrassa Nord, Consorcio Sanitario de Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Cleofé Zaragozá
- CFS/ME Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital Research Institute, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Passeig de Vall d'Hebron 119-129, E-08035, Barcelona, Spain.,Clinical Research Department, Laboratorios Viñas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luisa Aliste
- CFS/ME Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital Research Institute, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Passeig de Vall d'Hebron 119-129, E-08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tomás Fernández de Sevilla
- CFS/ME Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital Research Institute, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Passeig de Vall d'Hebron 119-129, E-08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Alegre
- CFS/ME Unit, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital Research Institute, Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, Passeig de Vall d'Hebron 119-129, E-08035, Barcelona, Spain
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21
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Gleason KD, Stoothoff J, McClellan D, McManimen S, Thorpe T, Katz BZ, Jason LA. Operationalizing Substantial Reduction in Functioning Among Young Adults with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Int J Behav Med 2019; 25:448-455. [PMID: 29872989 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-018-9732-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic fatigue syndrome and myalgic encephalomyelitis are fatiguing illnesses that often result in long-term impairment in daily functioning. In reviewing case definitions, Thrope et al. (Fatigue 4(3):175-188, 2016) noted that the vast majority of case definitions used to describe these illnesses list a "substantial reduction" in activities as a required feature for diagnosis. However, there is no consensus on how to best operationalize the criterion of substantial reduction. METHOD The present study used a series of receiver operating curve (ROC) analyses to explore the use of the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36), designed by Ware and Shelbourne for operationalizing the substantial reduction criterion in a young adult population (18-29 years old). We compared the sensitivity and specificity of various cutoff scores for the SF-36 subscales and assessed their usefulness in discriminating between a group of young adults with a known diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (n = 98) versus those without that diagnosis (n = 272). RESULTS The four top performing subscales and their associated cutoffs were determined: Physical Functioning ≤ 80, General Health ≤ 47, Role Physical ≤ 25, and Social Functioning ≤ 50. Used in combination, these four cutoff scores were shown to reliably discriminate between the patients and controls in our sample of young adults. CONCLUSION The implications of these findings for employing the substantial reduction criterion in both clinical and research settings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen D Gleason
- University of Southern Maine, 512 Science Building, 96 Falmouth Street, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Jamie Stoothoff
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, 990 W Fullerton Avenue, Suite 3100, Chicago, IL, 60614, USA
| | - Damani McClellan
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, 990 W Fullerton Avenue, Suite 3100, Chicago, IL, 60614, USA
| | - Stephanie McManimen
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, 990 W Fullerton Avenue, Suite 3100, Chicago, IL, 60614, USA
| | - Taylor Thorpe
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, 990 W Fullerton Avenue, Suite 3100, Chicago, IL, 60614, USA
| | - Ben Z Katz
- Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, 225 E Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Leonard A Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, 990 W Fullerton Avenue, Suite 3100, Chicago, IL, 60614, USA.
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22
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Jason LA, Sunnquist M. The Development of the DePaul Symptom Questionnaire: Original, Expanded, Brief, and Pediatric Versions. Front Pediatr 2018; 6:330. [PMID: 30460215 PMCID: PMC6232226 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2018.00330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the key requirements of a reliable case definition is the use of standardized procedures for assessing symptoms. This article chronicles the development of the DePaul Symptom Questionnaire (DSQ) to assess symptoms of the major chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) case definitions. The original questionnaire has been modified and expanded over time to more fully capture symptoms from various adult case definitions, and a brief as well as pediatric version have also been developed. The DSQ has demonstrated very good psychometric properties in terms of test-retest reliability and sensitivity/specificity, as well as construct, predictive, and discriminant validity. The DSQ allows for a clear characterization of a patient's illness and allows scientists and clinicians to improve diagnostic reliability and validity when employing case definitions of ME and CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard A. Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, United States
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Saracino RM, Jutagir DR, Cunningham A, Foran-Tuller KA, Driscoll MA, Sledge WH, Emre SH, Fehon DC. Psychiatric Comorbidity, Health-Related Quality of Life, and Mental Health Service Utilization Among Patients Awaiting Liver Transplant. J Pain Symptom Manage 2018; 56. [PMID: 29526612 PMCID: PMC6360091 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2018.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The prevalence of psychiatric disorders and mental health service utilization among patients with end-stage liver disease awaiting transplant remains understudied. OBJECTIVES This study assessed the prevalence of psychological disorders and symptoms with the use of a structured diagnostic interview and self-report measures, and examined patient-reported mental health service utilization and barriers to care. METHODS Waitlisted liver transplant candidates (N = 120) completed assessments during routine clinic appointments at a single time point. RESULTS Participants endorsed moderate-to-severe levels of depression (19.2%), anxiety (26.7%), and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (23.3%). Forty-three percent had received some form of mental health treatment in the recent past, and a range of barriers to accessing mental health services were endorsed. In a subset of 39 participants who received a structure diagnostic assessment, there was a high prevalence of current (51.3%) and past (82.1%) psychiatric disorders. Elevated scores on depression, anxiety, and PTSD measures were associated with significant decrements in health-related quality of life, but were not differentially associated with mental health service utilization. CONCLUSION There are a significant number of end-stage liver disease patients who could benefit from intervention who are not currently connected to treatment. Many patients do not see the need for accessing services, perhaps because of a lack of insight or knowledge about the benefits of mental health treatment. Future research should determine optimal treatment and service delivery methods for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Saracino
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Devika R Jutagir
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Amy Cunningham
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Mary A Driscoll
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - William H Sledge
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sukru H Emre
- Department of Surgery, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale-New Haven Transplantation Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Dwain C Fehon
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Yale-New Haven Transplantation Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
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Sunnquist M, Jason LA. A reexamination of the cognitive behavioral model of chronic fatigue syndrome. J Clin Psychol 2018; 74:1234-1245. [PMID: 29457646 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The cognitive behavioral model of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) suggests that cognitions and reduced activity level perpetuate the fatigue and impairment that individuals with CFS experience. The two empirical evaluations of this model resulted in conflicting findings. The current study examines the influence of case definition fulfillment on the applicability of this model to CFS. METHOD A moderated mediation analysis was conducted on 990 individuals with CFS to reexamine the behavioral pathway of this model. Case definition fulfillment was entered as a moderator. RESULTS Findings were generally inconsistent with the cognitive behavioral model of CFS. Case definition fulfillment significantly moderated the relation between activity level and physical impairment (β = -0.08, p = 0.03); individuals who met more stringent case definitions demonstrated a weaker relation between activity level and impairment. CONCLUSIONS This model may not accurately represent the experience of individuals with CFS, particularly those who fulfill more stringent case definitions.
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Wallis A, Ball M, Butt H, Lewis DP, McKechnie S, Paull P, Jaa-Kwee A, Bruck D. Open-label pilot for treatment targeting gut dysbiosis in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: neuropsychological symptoms and sex comparisons. J Transl Med 2018; 16:24. [PMID: 29409505 PMCID: PMC5801817 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-018-1392-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preliminary evidence suggests that the enteric microbiota may play a role in the expression of neurological symptoms in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Overlapping symptoms with the acute presentation of D-lactic acidosis has prompted the use of antibiotic treatment to target the overgrowth of species within the Streptococcus genus found in commensal enteric microbiota as a possible treatment for neurological symptoms in ME/CFS. METHODS An open-label, repeated measures design was used to examine treatment efficacy and enable sex comparisons. Participants included 44 adult ME/CFS patients (27 females) from one specialist medical clinic with Streptococcus viable counts above 3.00 × 105 cfu/g (wet weight of faeces) and with a count greater than 5% of the total count of aerobic microorganisms. The 4-week treatment protocol included alternate weeks of Erythromycin (400 mg of erythromycin as ethyl succinate salt) twice daily and probiotic (D-lactate free multistrain probiotic, 5 × 1010 cfu twice daily). 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVAs were used to assess sex-time interactions and effects across pre- and post-intervention for microbial, lactate and clinical outcomes. Ancillary non-parametric correlations were conducted to examine interactions between change in microbiota and clinical outcomes. RESULTS Large treatment effects were observed for the intention-to-treat sample with a reduction in Streptococcus viable count and improvement on several clinical outcomes including total symptoms, some sleep (less awakenings, greater efficiency and quality) and cognitive symptoms (attention, processing speed, cognitive flexibility, story memory and verbal fluency). Mood, fatigue and urine D:L lactate ratio remained similar across time. Ancillary results infer that shifts in microbiota were associated with more of the variance in clinical changes for males compared with females. CONCLUSIONS Results support the notion that specific microorganisms interact with some ME/CFS symptoms and offer promise for the therapeutic potential of targeting gut dysbiosis in this population. Streptococcus spp. are not the primary or sole producers of D-lactate. Further investigation of lactate concentrations are needed to elucidate any role of D-lactate in this population. Concurrent microbial shifts that may be associated with clinical improvement (i.e., increased Bacteroides and Bifidobacterium or decreased Clostridium in males) invite enquiry into alternative strategies for individualised treatment. Trial Registration Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12614001077651) 9th October 2014. https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=366933&isReview=true.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Wallis
- Psychology Department, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michelle Ball
- Psychology Department, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Henry Butt
- Bioscreen (Aust) Pty Ltd., Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Sandra McKechnie
- College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Amber Jaa-Kwee
- College of Engineering and Science, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dorothy Bruck
- Psychology Department, College of Health and Biomedicine, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
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Stormorken E, Jason LA, Kirkevold M. Factors impacting the illness trajectory of post-infectious fatigue syndrome: a qualitative study of adults' experiences. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:952. [PMID: 29237442 PMCID: PMC5729235 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4968-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-infectious fatigue syndrome (PIFS), also known as post-viral fatigue syndrome, is a complex condition resulting in physical, cognitive, emotional, neurological, vocational and/or role performance disabilities in varying degrees that changes over time. The needs for health care resources are high, and costly, as is the economic burden on the affected individuals. Many factors may impact the trajectory, and frequently PIFS develops into a chronic condition. Health professionals lack understanding and knowledge, which results in delayed diagnosis, lack of recognition, appropriate treatment, support and practical help. The aim of our study was to explore, from the perspective of persons who had lived with PIFS for four years following an outbreak of Giardia l. induced enteritis, factors that may have impacted their illness trajectory and how these factors had played a role during different phases. METHODS In this retrospective exploratory qualitative study a group of 26 affected adults between 26 and 59 years old were selected for in-depth interviews. A maximum variation sample was recruited from a physician-diagnosed cohort of persons with PIFS enrolled at a tertiary outpatient fatigue clinic. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and subjected to qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Unhelpful and helpful factors were associated with the healthcare system, health professionals and the affected persons were experienced as having an impact on the trajectory. External impacting factors which are related to the health care system, providers and the social security system are misdiagnosis, trivialization of symptoms, unhelpful advice, delayed diagnosis and lack of appropriate help. Internal impacting factors related to the affected individuals were lack of knowledge, overestimating functional capacity, assuming the condition will pass, ignoring body signals and denial. A model of impacting factors in each phase of the trajectory is presented. CONCLUSION Unmet needs may result in unnecessary disability and high societal and personal costs. Enhanced knowledge of impacting factors in each phase of the trajectory may contribute to more timely and tailored health care services and less use of health services. Increased functional capacity, improved health and ability to work or study may reduce the societal costs and the economic burden for the affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Stormorken
- Department of Nursing Science, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, P.O.B. 1130 Blindern, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Leonard A. Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, 990 W. Fullerton Ave., Suite 3100, Chicago, IL 60614 USA
| | - Marit Kirkevold
- Department of Nursing Science, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, P.O.B. 1130 Blindern, 0318 Oslo, Norway
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Sunnquist M, Jason LA, Nehrke P, Goudsmit EM. A Comparison of Case Definitions for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. JOURNAL OF CHRONIC DISEASES AND MANAGEMENT 2017; 2:1013. [PMID: 29104961 PMCID: PMC5663312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Many professionals have described the clinical presentation of myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), but recent efforts have focused on the development of ME criteria that can be reliably applied. The current study compared the symptoms and functioning of individuals who met the newly-developed Institute of Medicine (IOM) clinical criteria to a revised version of the London criteria for ME. While 76% of a sample diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) met the IOM criteria, 44% met the revised London criteria. The revised London criteria identified patients with greater physical impairment. The results of this study indicate the need for a standard case definition with specific guidelines for operationalization. The application of case definitions has important implications for the number of individuals identified with ME, the pattern of symptoms experienced by these individuals, and the severity of their symptoms and functional limitations. Sample heterogeneity across research studies hinders researchers from replicating findings and impedes the search for biological markers and effective treatments.
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Stormorken E, Jason LA, Kirkevold M. From good health to illness with post-infectious fatigue syndrome: a qualitative study of adults' experiences of the illness trajectory. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2017; 18:49. [PMID: 28347294 PMCID: PMC5369194 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-017-0614-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Municipal drinking water contaminated with the parasite Giardia lamblia in Bergen, Norway, in 2004 caused an outbreak of gastrointestinal infection in 2500 people, according to the Norwegian Prescription Database. In the aftermath a minor group subsequently developed post-infectious fatigue syndrome (PIFS). Persons in this minor group had laboratory-confirmed parasites in their stool samples, and their enteritis had been cured by one or more courses of antibiotic treatment. The study's purpose was to explore how the affected persons experienced the illness trajectory and various PIFS disabilities. METHODS A qualitative design with in-depth interviews was used to obtain first-hand experiences of PIFS. To get an overall understanding of their perceived illness trajectory, the participants were asked to retrospectively rate their functional level at different points in time. A maximum variation sample of adults diagnosed with PIFS according to the international 1994 criteria was recruited from a cohort of persons diagnosed with PIFS at a tertiary Neurology Outpatient Clinic in Western Norway. The sample comprised 19 women and seven men (mean age 41 years, range 26-59). The interviews were fully transcribed and subjected to a qualitative content analysis. RESULTS All participants had been living healthy lives pre-illness. The time to develop PIFS varied. Multiple disabilities in the physical, cognitive, emotional, neurological, sleep and intolerance domains were described. Everyone more or less dropped out from studies or work, and few needed to be taken care of during the worst period. The severity of these disabilities varied among the participants and during the illness phases. Despite individual variations, an overall pattern of illness trajectory emerged. Five phases were identified: prodromal, downward, turning, upward and chronic phase. All reached a nadir followed by varying degrees of improvement in their functional ability. None regained pre-illness health or personal and professional abilities. CONCLUSIONS The needs of persons with this condition are not met. Early diagnosis and interdisciplinary rehabilitation could be beneficial in altering the downward trajectory at an earlier stage, avoiding the most severe disability and optimising improvement. Enhanced knowledge among health professionals, tailored treatment, rest as needed, financial support and practical help would likely improve prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Stormorken
- Department of Nursing Science, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, P.O.B. 1130 Blindern, 0318 Oslo, Norway
| | - Leonard A. Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Marit Kirkevold
- Department of Nursing Science, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, P.O.B. 1130 Blindern, 0318 Oslo, Norway
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Jason LA, Katz B, Gleason K, McManimen S, Sunnquist M, Thorpe T. A Prospective Study of Infectious Mononucleosis in College Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY (OVERLAND PARK) 2017; 2:http://www.opastonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/a-prospective-study-of-infectious-mononucleosis-in-college-students-IJP-17-016.pdf. [PMID: 28717787 PMCID: PMC5510613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aims to prospectively investigate possible biological and psychological factors present in college students who will go on to develop chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) following Infectious Mononucleosis (IM). Identification of risk factors predisposing patients towards developing CFS may help to understand the underlying mechanisms and ultimately prevent its occurrence. Our study is enrolling healthy college students over the age of 18. Enrollment began in March of 2013 and is ongoing. METHODS Biological and psychological data are collected when students are well (Stage 1), when they develop IM (Stage 2), and approximately 6 months after IM diagnosis (Stage 3). RESULTS Two case studies demonstrate the progression of student symptomology across all three stages. CONCLUSION The Case Studies presented illustrate the usefulness of a prospective research design that tracks healthy students, following their trajectory of IM illness to either a) full recovery or b) diagnosis with CFS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ben Katz
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, US
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Bar-Shalita T, Cermak SA. Atypical Sensory Modulation and Psychological Distress in the General Population. Am J Occup Ther 2016; 70:7004250010. [PMID: 27294988 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2016.018648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Atypical sensory modulation (ASM) is characterized by over- or underresponsiveness to sensory stimuli in one or more sensory systems. Faulty sensory information processing could result in anxiety. Because the relation between ASM and psychological distress has not been examined, we explored psychological distress and ASM in the general population. METHOD A community-based sample of 204 adults (105 men; mean age = 27.4 yr, standard deviation = 3.71) completed the Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire--Intensity Scale (SRQ-IS; Bar-Shalita, Seltzer, Vatine, Yochman, & Parush, 2009); the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI; Derogatis & Coons, 1993); and the Short Form--36 Health Survey, Version 2 (SF-36; Ware, Kosinski, & Gandek, 2005). RESULTS The ASM group displayed considerably more distress symptoms than the comparison group. Multivariate linear regression showed SRQ-IS and SF-36 scores as significant predictors of BSI score (r = .64). CONCLUSION ASM may be a risk factor for developing other mental health concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tami Bar-Shalita
- Tami Bar-Shalita, PhD, OT, is Lecturer, Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, and Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel;
| | - Sharon A Cermak
- Sharon A. Cermak, EdD, OTR/L, is Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles
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Thorpe T, McManimen S, Gleason K, Stoothoff J, Newton JL, Strand EB, Jason LA. Assessing current functioning as a measure of significant reduction in activity level. FATIGUE : BIOMEDICINE, HEALTH & BEHAVIOR 2016; 4:175-188. [PMID: 28217427 PMCID: PMC5312955 DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2016.1206176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) have case definitions with varying criteria, but almost all criteria require an individual to have a substantial reduction in activity level. Unfortunately, a consensus has not been reached regarding what constitutes substantial reductions. One measure that has been used to measure substantial reduction is the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36).[1]. PURPOSE The current study examined the relationship between the SF-36, a measure of current functioning, and a self-report measure of the percent reduction in hours spent on activities. RESULTS Findings indicated that select subscales of the SF-36 accurately measure significant reductions in functioning. Further, this measure significantly differentiates patients from controls. CONCLUSION Determining what constitutes a significant reduction in activity is difficult because it is subjective to the individual. However, certain subscales of the SF-36 could provide a uniform way to accurately measure and define substantial reductions in functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Thorpe
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL USA
| | | | - Kristen Gleason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Jamie Stoothoff
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Julia L. Newton
- Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Leonard A. Jason
- Center for Community Research, DePaul University, Chicago, IL USA
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Han CJ, Yang GS. Fatigue in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Pooled Frequency and Severity of Fatigue. Asian Nurs Res (Korean Soc Nurs Sci) 2016; 10:1-10. [PMID: 27021828 DOI: 10.1016/j.anr.2016.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 01/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Fatigue is the third most common "extraintestinal" complaint of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but it is still poorly understood. This study aimed to review characteristics of IBS-associated fatigue and to examine pooled frequency, severity of fatigue, and correlations of related factors with fatigue in IBS via meta-analyses. METHODS Publications were searched in eight databases from 1995 to 2014. Random effects meta-analyses were applied with standard error, weighted effect size, and correlation-based measure of effect size. RESULTS Twenty-four studies were included in systematic review. Seventeen studies were used for meta-analyses (2 studies were excluded in the frequency of fatigue analysis due to data unavailability). Using "tiredness" to define fatigue, and Fatigue Impact Scale to assess fatigue were the most frequently used across the studies. Gastrointestinal symptoms, psychological distress, and health-related quality of life were the most common correlates with fatigue. The pooled frequency of fatigue was 54.2% [95% confidence interval (38.5, 69.4)]. Metaregression on the frequency of fatigue showed positive and significant relations with tertiary care settings, female sex, and younger age. There was a negatively moderate relationship between the severity of fatigue and health-related quality of life score (correlation-based measure of effect size: -.378). CONCLUSIONS Fatigue is prevalent among patients with IBS and commonly co-occurs with other symptoms. This is the first study to fully examine fatigue in IBS, which shed light on the comprehensive management of fatigue in this patient group. Future research is warranted to further explore fatigue-related factors and underlying mechanisms of fatigue in IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Jungyoun Han
- Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, USA.
| | - Gee Su Yang
- Department of Pain and Symptom Translational Science, School of Nursing, University of Maryland, College Park, USA
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Jason LA, Katz BZ, Mears C, Jantke R, Brown A, Sunnquist M, O'Connor K. Issues in Estimating Rates of Pediatric Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in a Community-based Sample. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF NEUROPSYCHOPHYSIOLOGY 2015; 2:e37281. [PMID: 28261672 PMCID: PMC5336218 DOI: 10.17795/ajnpp-37281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
There is a need to examine the prevalence of pediatric chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) in the general community, as well as the relative frequency of CFS and ME among various groups (e.g., different age groups, genders, racial/ethnic groups, and socioeconomic strata) and to compare these individuals with community controls. In the present study, we describe an ongoing NIH-funded study, which uses a multiple-stage design, beginning with a brief screening for CFS- and ME-like symptomatology, followed by a more rigorous medical and psychiatric diagnostic evaluation to determine the prevalence of pediatric CFS and ME status in the general community. We provide two case studies showing the types of data we are collecting, and how the data are being used to inform diagnostic decisions.
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Dieli-Conwright CM, Orozco BZ. Exercise after breast cancer treatment: current perspectives. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2015; 7:353-62. [PMID: 26543382 PMCID: PMC4622557 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s82039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 2 decades, great strides have been made in the field of exercise-oncology research, particularly with breast cancer. This area of research is particularly important since there are >2.8 million breast cancer survivors who are in need of an intervention that can offset treatment-related side effects. Noticeable reductions in physical fitness (ie, cardiopulmonary fitness and muscular strength), negative changes in body composition (ie, increase in body mass, decrease in lean body mass, and increase in fat mass), increased fatigue, depression, or anxiety are some of the common side effects of cancer treatments that negatively impact overall quality of life and increase the risk for the development of comorbidities. Exercise plays a vital role in improving cardiopulmonary function, psychological events, muscular strength, and endurance in breast cancer survivors, and thus should be considered as a key factor of lifestyle intervention to reverse negative treatment-related side effects. The purpose of this review is to address current perspectives on the benefits of aerobic and resistance exercise after breast cancer treatments. This review is focused on the well-established benefits of exercise on physical and emotional well-being, bone health, lymphedema management, and the postulated benefits of exercise on risk reduction for recurrence of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina M Dieli-Conwright
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, Women's Health and Exercise Laboratory, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Breanna Z Orozco
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, Women's Health and Exercise Laboratory, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Bar-Shalita T, Deutsch L, Honigman L, Weissman-Fogel I. Ecological aspects of pain in sensory modulation disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2015; 45-46:157-167. [PMID: 26254166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2015.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensory Modulation Disorder (SMD) interferes with the daily life participation of otherwise healthy individuals and is characterized by over-, under- or seeking responsiveness to naturally occurring sensory stimuli. Previous laboratory findings indicate pain hyper-sensitivity in SMD individuals suggesting CNS alteration in pain processing and modulation. However, laboratory studies lack ecological validity, and warrant clinical completion in order to elicit a sound understanding of the phenomenon studied. Thus, this study explored the association between sensory modulation and pain in a daily life context in a general population sample. METHODS Daily life context of pain and sensations were measured in 250 adults (aged 23-40 years; 49.6% males) using 4 self-report questionnaires: Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire (PSQ) and Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) to evaluate the sensory and cognitive aspects of pain; the Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire (SRQ) to appraise SMD; and the Short Form - 36 Health Survey, version 2 (SF36) to assess health related Quality of Life (QoL). RESULTS Thirty two individuals (12.8%) were found with over-responsiveness type of SMD, forming the SOR-SMD group. While no group differences (SOR-SMD vs. Non-SMD) were found, low-to-moderate total sample correlations were demonstrated between the SRQ-Aversive sub-scale and i) PSQ total (r=0.31, p<0.01) and sub-scales scores (r=0.27-0.28, p<0.01), as well as ii) PCS total and the sub-scales of Rumination and Helplessness scores (r=0.15, p<0.05). PSQ total and sub-scale scores were more highly correlated with SRQ-Aversive in the SOR-SMD group (r=0.57-0.68, p=0.03-<0.01) compared to Non-SMD group. The Physical Health - Total score (but not the Mental Health - Total) of the SF36 was lower for the SOR-SMD group (p=0.03), mainly due to the difference in the Body pain sub-scale (p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that SOR-SMD is strongly associated with the sensory aspect of pain but weakly associated with the cognitive aspect. This indicates that SMD co-occurs with daily pain sensitivity, thus reducing QoL, but less with the cognitive-catastrophizing manifestation of pain perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bar-Shalita
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel; Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - L Deutsch
- BioStats Statistical Consulting Ltd, Modiin, Israel
| | - L Honigman
- The Laboratory of Clinical Neurophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa, Israel
| | - I Weissman-Fogel
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
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Overman CL, Kool MB, Da Silva JAP, Geenen R. The prevalence of severe fatigue in rheumatic diseases: an international study. Clin Rheumatol 2015; 35:409-15. [PMID: 26272057 PMCID: PMC4752960 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-015-3035-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fatigue is a common, disabling, and difficult-to-manage problem in rheumatic diseases. Prevalence estimates of fatigue within rheumatic diseases vary considerably. Data on the prevalence of severe fatigue across multiple rheumatic diseases using a similar instrument is missing. Our aim was to provide an overview of the prevalence of severe fatigue across a broad range of rheumatic diseases and to examine its association with clinical and demographic variables. Online questionnaires were filled out by an international sample of 6120 patients (88 % female, mean age 47) encompassing 30 different rheumatic diseases. Fatigue was measured with the RAND(SF)-36 Vitality scale. A score of ≤35 was taken as representing severe fatigue (90 % sensitivity and 81 % specificity for chronic fatigue syndrome). Severe fatigue was present in 41 to 57 % of patients with a single inflammatory rheumatic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjögren's syndrome, psoriatic arthritis, and scleroderma. Severe fatigue was least prevalent in patients with osteoarthritis (35 %) and most prevalent in patients with fibromyalgia (82 %). In logistic regression analysis, severe fatigue was associated with having fibromyalgia, having multiple rheumatic diseases without fibromyalgia, younger age, lower education, and language (French: highest prevalence; Dutch: lowest prevalence). In conclusion, one out of every two patients with a rheumatic disease is severely fatigued. As severe fatigue is detrimental to the patient, the near environment, and society at large, unraveling the underlying mechanisms of fatigue and developing optimal treatment should be top priorities in rheumatologic research and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile L Overman
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Marianne B Kool
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - José A P Da Silva
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospitais da Universidade de Coimbra, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rinie Geenen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 85.500, 3508 GA, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Haney E, Smith MB, McDonagh M, Pappas M, Daeges M, Wasson N, Nelson HD. Diagnostic Methods for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Systematic Review for a National Institutes of Health Pathways to Prevention Workshop. Ann Intern Med 2015; 162:834-40. [PMID: 26075754 DOI: 10.7326/m15-0443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME)/chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is based on clinical criteria, yet there has been no consensus regarding which set of criteria best identifies patients with the condition. The Institute of Medicine has recently proposed a new case definition and diagnostic algorithm. PURPOSE To review methods to diagnose ME/CFS in adults and identify research gaps and needs for future research. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases (January 1988 to September 2014); clinical trial registries; and reference lists. STUDY SELECTION English-language studies describing methods of diagnosis of ME/CFS and their accuracy. DATA EXTRACTION Data on participants, study design, analysis, follow-up, and results were extracted and confirmed. Study quality was dual-rated by using prespecified criteria, and discrepancies were resolved through consensus. DATA SYNTHESIS Forty-four studies met inclusion criteria. Eight case definitions have been used to define ME/CFS; a ninth, recently proposed by the Institute of Medicine, includes principal elements of previous definitions. Patients meeting criteria for ME represent a more symptomatic subset of the broader ME/CFS population. Scales rating self-reported symptoms differentiate patients with ME/CFS from healthy controls under study conditions but have not been evaluated in clinically undiagnosed patients to determine validity and generalizability. LIMITATIONS Studies were heterogeneous and were limited by size, number, applicability, and methodological quality. Most methods were tested in highly selected patient populations. CONCLUSION Nine sets of clinical criteria are available to define ME/CFS, yet none of the current diagnostic methods have been adequately tested to identify patients with ME/CFS when diagnostic uncertainty exists. More definitive studies in broader populations are needed to address these research gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Haney
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Cancer Center, Providence Health and Services Oregon, Portland, Oregon
| | - M.E. Beth Smith
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Cancer Center, Providence Health and Services Oregon, Portland, Oregon
| | - Marian McDonagh
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Cancer Center, Providence Health and Services Oregon, Portland, Oregon
| | - Miranda Pappas
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Cancer Center, Providence Health and Services Oregon, Portland, Oregon
| | - Monica Daeges
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Cancer Center, Providence Health and Services Oregon, Portland, Oregon
| | - Ngoc Wasson
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Cancer Center, Providence Health and Services Oregon, Portland, Oregon
| | - Heidi D. Nelson
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Providence Cancer Center, Providence Health and Services Oregon, Portland, Oregon
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Jason LA, Sunnquist M, Brown A, Reed J. Defining Essential Features of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. JOURNAL OF HUMAN BEHAVIOR IN THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 25:657-674. [PMID: 27047234 PMCID: PMC4817848 DOI: 10.1080/10911359.2015.1011256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Considerable debate surrounds the search for the defining features of patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Current case definitions were created through clinical consensus. Failure to operationalize these case definitions has led to considerable variability in the identification of patients. In addition, some case definitions (e.g., Fukuda et al., 1994) do not require cardinal symptoms of this illness, where as other case definitions do require core symptoms of this illness (Carruthers et al., 2003, 2011), and these latter case criteria appear to identify a more impaired group of patients. Criterion variance is most likely to occur when operationally explicit criteria do not exist for diagnostic categories (Spitzer, Endicott, & Robins, 1978), or when there are varying criteria for contrasting case definitions, which is an impediment to the research in this field. To deal with this problem, it is possible to differentiate those that meet more loosely defined criteria from those that are more narrowly and defined, thus differentiating CFS from ME. In order to progress the search for biological markers and effective treatments, essential features need to be operationalized and broadly used in order to increase the probability that individuals included in samples have the same underlying illness.
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Jason LA, Kot B, Sunnquist M, Brown A, Evans M, Jantke R, Williams Y, Furst J, Vernon SD. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: Toward An Empirical Case Definition. Health Psychol Behav Med 2015; 3:82-93. [PMID: 26029488 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2015.1014489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Current case definitions of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) have been based on consensus methods, but empirical methods could be used to identify core symptoms and thereby improve the reliability. In the present study, several methods (i.e., continuous scores of symptoms, theoretically and empirically derived cut off scores of symptoms) were used to identify core symptoms best differentiating patients from controls. In addition, data mining with decision trees was conducted. Our study found a small number of core symptoms that have good sensitivity and specificity, and these included fatigue, post-exertional malaise, a neurocognitive symptom, and unrefreshing sleep. Outcomes from these analyses suggest that using empirically selected symptoms can help guide the creation of a more reliable case definition.
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Abstract
The case definitions for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), ME, and CFS each include a disability criterion requiring substantial reductions in activity in order to meet diagnostic criteria. Difficulties have been encountered in defining and operationalizing the substantial reduction disability criterion within these various illness definitions. The present study sought to relate measures of past and current activities in several domains including the SF-36, an objective measure of activity (e.g., actigraphy), a self-reported quality of life scale, and measures of symptom severity. Results of the study revealed that current work activities had the highest number of significant associations with domains such as the SF-36 subscales, actigraphy, and symptom scores. As an example, higher self-reported levels of current work activity were associated with better health. This suggests that current work related activities may provide a useful domain for helping operationalize the construct of substantial reductions in activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Schafer
- a Center for Community Research, DePaul University , Chicago , Illinois , USA
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Pinxsterhuis I, Strand EB, Stormorken E, Sveen U. From chaos and insecurity to understanding and coping: experienced benefits of a group-based education programme for people with chronic fatigue syndrome. BRITISH JOURNAL OF GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2014.987725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Vergauwen K, Huijnen IPJ, Kos D, Van de Velde D, van Eupen I, Meeus M. Assessment of activity limitations and participation restrictions with persons with chronic fatigue syndrome: a systematic review. Disabil Rehabil 2014; 37:1706-16. [DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2014.978507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Vermeulen RCW, Vermeulen van Eck IWG. Decreased oxygen extraction during cardiopulmonary exercise test in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. J Transl Med 2014; 12:20. [PMID: 24456560 PMCID: PMC3903040 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-12-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The insufficient metabolic adaptation to exercise in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is still being debated and poorly understood. Methods We analysed the cardiopulmonary exercise tests of CFS patients, idiopathic chronic fatigue (CFI) patients and healthy visitors. Continuous non-invasive measurement of the cardiac output by Nexfin® (BMEYE B.V. Amsterdam, the Netherlands) was added to the cardiopulmonary exercise tests. The peak oxygen extraction by muscle cells and the increase of cardiac output relative to the increase of oxygen uptake (ΔQ’/ΔV’O2) were measured, calculated from the cardiac output and the oxygen uptake during incremental exercise. Results The peak oxygen extraction by muscle cells was 10.83 ± 2.80 ml/100ml in 178 CFS women, 11.62 ± 2.90 ml/100 ml in 172 CFI, and 13.45 ± 2.72 ml/100 ml in 11 healthy women (ANOVA: P=0.001), 13.66 ± 3.31 ml/100 ml in 25 CFS men, 14.63 ± 4.38 ml/100 ml in 51 CFI, and 19.52 ± 6.53 ml/100 ml in 7 healthy men (ANOVA: P=0.008). The ΔQ’/ΔV’O2 was > 6 L/L (normal ΔQ’/ΔV’O2 ≈ 5 L/L) in 70% of the patients and in 22% of the healthy group. Conclusion Low oxygen uptake by muscle cells causes exercise intolerance in a majority of CFS patients, indicating insufficient metabolic adaptation to incremental exercise. The high increase of the cardiac output relative to the increase of oxygen uptake argues against deconditioning as a cause for physical impairment in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruud C W Vermeulen
- CFS/ME Medical Centre Amsterdam, Waalstraat 25-31, Amsterdam 1078BR, Netherlands.
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Flores S, Brown A, Adeoye S, Jason LA, Evans M. Examining the Impact of Obesity on Individuals with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Workplace Health Saf 2013; 61:299-307. [DOI: 10.1177/216507991306100705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex disorder affecting multiple body systems. The most commonly used definition of CFS is 6 or more months of fatigue and the presence of at least four of eight minor symptoms. In addition, many health and psychological conditions, including severe obesity–body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or greater–exclude individuals from a diagnosis of CFS. Obesity has been correlated with fatigue, sleep problems, and less satisfaction with general health, functioning, and vitality. The current study investigated weight trends over time in a community-based sample of individuals with CFS and healthy controls. The study further investigated the impact of comorbid weight issues on several health and disability outcomes in a subset of overweight individuals. Overweight and obese individuals with CFS demonstrated poorer functioning than controls who were similarly weighted One participant was excluded because she had gained weight at a monitoring visit and her BMI was greater than 40 kg/m2. The implications of these findings for health care workers are discussed.
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Flores S, Brown A, Adeoye S, Jason LA, Evans M. Examining the impact of obesity on individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome. Workplace Health Saf 2013. [PMID: 23799656 DOI: 10.3928/21650799-20130617-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex disorder affecting multiple body systems. The most commonly used definition of CFS is 6 or more months of fatigue and the presence of at least four of eight minor symptoms. In addition, many health and psychological conditions, including severe obesity-body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m(2) or greater-exclude individuals from a diagnosis of CFS. Obesity has been correlated with fatigue, sleep problems, and less satisfaction with general health, functioning, and vitality. The current study investigated weight trends over time in a community-based sample of individuals with CFS and healthy controls. The study further investigated the impact of comorbid weight issues on several health and disability outcomes in a subset of overweight individuals. Overweight and obese individuals with CFS demonstrated poorer functioning than controls who were similarly weighted. One participant was excluded because she had gained weight at a monitoring visit and her BMI was greater than 40 kg/m(2). The implications of these findings for health care workers are discussed.
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Brown MM, Bell DS, Jason LA, Christos C, Bell DE. Understanding long-term outcomes of chronic fatigue syndrome. J Clin Psychol 2012; 68:1028-35. [PMID: 22753044 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.21880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study sought to examine long-term health, symptom, and disability outcomes among patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) by comparing those diagnosed with CFS 25 years ago with healthy controls. METHOD Of the 25 participants diagnosed with CFS 25 years ago, 5 self-reported that they maintained a diagnosis of CFS, while 20 reported no longer having a diagnosis. These two groups were compared with healthy controls on outcomes related to functioning and symptom severity. RESULTS Those who remitted from CFS showed significantly more impairment on 21 out of 23 outcomes compared with controls. On 17 outcomes, those who remitted had nonsignificant differences in impairment compared to those who maintained a CFS diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this study suggest that over time many individuals will not maintain a CFS diagnosis but will not return to their premorbid level of functioning.
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Jason LA, Unger ER, Dimitrakoff JD, Fagin AP, Houghton M, Cook DB, Marshall GD, Klimas N, Snell C. Minimum data elements for research reports on CFS. Brain Behav Immun 2012; 26:401-6. [PMID: 22306456 PMCID: PMC4643273 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2012.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Revised: 01/10/2012] [Accepted: 01/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition that has received increasing attention from researchers in the past decade. However, it has become difficult to compare data collected in different laboratories due to the variability in basic information regarding descriptions of sampling methods, patient characteristics, and clinical assessments. The issue of variability in CFS research was recently highlighted at the NIH's 2011 State of the Knowledge of CFS meeting prompting researchers to consider the critical information that should be included in CFS research reports. To address this problem, we present our consensus on the minimum data elements that should be included in all CFS research reports, along with additional elements that are currently being evaluated in specific research studies that show promise as important patient descriptors for subgrouping of CFS. These recommendations are intended to improve the consistency of reported methods and the interpretability of reported results. Adherence to minimum standards and increased reporting consistency will allow for better comparisons among published CFS articles, provide guidance for future research and foster the generation of knowledge that can directly benefit the patient.
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Anderson VR, Jason LA, Hlavaty LE, Porter N, Cudia J. A review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies on myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2012; 86:147-55. [PMID: 21571484 PMCID: PMC3229648 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2011.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2010] [Revised: 03/11/2011] [Accepted: 04/09/2011] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review and synthesize findings across qualitative studies on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). METHODS Articles were systematically reviewed and analyzed within a meta-analytic framework. Analyses included a multi-perspective examination of ME/CFS, as well as a comparative analysis of ME/CFS versus other chronic conditions. RESULTS Thirty-four qualitative studies on ME/CFS were included. Findings include three substantive thematic areas that focus on: (1) experiences of people with ME/CFS, (2) experiences of physicians, and (3) themes that intersect both of these groups. For patients, illness development influenced identity, reductions in functioning, and coping. Physician-specific themes described lack of awareness about ME/CFS and recommended improvement in educational resources. Intersecting themes expressed issues with diagnosis creating tensions and fueling the stigmatization of ME/CFS. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate multilayered, context-specific experiences and ways in which both people with ME/CFS, as well as those involved in their lives (e.g., family or the medical community), interpret this illness. Future qualitative studies should recognize the various facets of the ME/CFS experience, the network members of people with ME/CFS, and the sociocultural environment through which the illness is understood. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Health care professionals can gain unique insight from patient experiences, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie R Anderson
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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Jason LA, Skendrovic B, Furst J, Brown A, Weng A, Bronikowski C. Data mining: comparing the empiric CFS to the Canadian ME/CFS case definition. J Clin Psychol 2011; 68:41-9. [PMID: 21823124 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.20827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This article contrasts two case definitions for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). We compared the empiric CFS case definition (Reeves et al., 2005) and the Canadian ME/CFS clinical case definition (Carruthers et al., 2003) with a sample of individuals with CFS versus those without. Data mining with decision trees was used to identify the best items to identify patients with CFS. Data mining is a statistical technique that was used to help determine which of the survey questions were most effective for accurately classifying cases. The empiric criteria identified about 79% of patients with CFS and the Canadian criteria identified 87% of patients. Items identified by the Canadian criteria had more construct validity. The implications of these findings are discussed.
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Davenport TE, Stevens SR, Baroni K, Mark Van Ness J, Snell CR. Reliability and validity of Short Form 36 Version 2 to measure health perceptions in a sub-group of individuals with fatigue. Disabil Rehabil 2011; 33:2596-604. [DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2011.582925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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