Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Question 1

What is chronic fatigue syndrome also known as?

Answer 1

Myalgic encephalomyelitis

Question 2

What is the time frame to diagnose CFS?

Answer 2

> 6 months

Question 3

What are the risk factors for CFS?

Answer 3

FHx
Female 
Autoimmune condition 
Psychosocial factors
EBV as a teen

Question 4

What are the symptoms of CFS?

Answer 4

Persistent fatigue
Concentration problems
PEM (post exertional malaise)
Non-inflammatory arthralgia

Question 5

What is PEM?

Answer 5

A group of symptoms following mental/physical exertion lasting 24 hours or more

• fatigue
• headaches
• cognitive deficits
• insomnia

Question 6

What investigations are done for suspected CFS?

Answer 6

DePaul questionnaire
- screening tool

FBC, U+Es, LFTs
- rule out other causes

CRP
- rule out inflammatory processes

TSH
- rule out hypothyroidism

HIV test
- rule out HIV

Question 7

How is CFS managed?

Answer 7

Individualised therapy

• exercise programme
• CBT

Question 8

What advice should be given to patients?

Answer 8

Exercise should not take priority over activities of daily living

Question 9

What follow up is given to patients with CFS?

Answer 9

Depression screening

Regular checkups