Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis)

Clinic A/P, adults

myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
Diagnosis
CFS mnemonic.
Diagnosis is made clinically when patient symptoms match definition and other systemic causes of symptoms are ruled out.

Symptoms must last at least 6 months and include:

  • Pathologic fatigue, along with a combination of other symptoms including
  • post-exertional fatigue,
  • impaired focus/concentration,
  • orthostatic intolerance, and
  • unrefreshing sleep.

 

Patients usually have headaches, diffuse myalgias, tender lymph nodes, and gastrointestinal or genitourinary impairments.

Further Reading / References

Chronic fatigue syndrome: Diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician 2012;86(8):741-746.

Institute of Medicine Committee on the Diagnostic Criteria for Myalgic Encephalitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Beyond Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Redefining an Illness. The National Academies Press, 2015, pp 213-225.

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