Contrasting Case Definitions: The ME International Consensus Criteria vs. the Fukuda et al. CFS Criteria

摘要

This article contrasts the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis International Consensus Criteria (ME-ICC) () with the CFS criteria. Findings indicated that the ME-ICC case definition criteria identified a subset of patients with more functional impairments and physical, mental and cognitive problems than the larger group of patients meeting the criteria. The sample of patients meeting ME-ICC criteria also had significantly greater rates of psychiatric comorbidity. These findings suggest that utilizing the ME-ICC may identify a more homogenous group of individuals with severe symptomatology and functional impairment. Implications of the high rates of psychiatric comorbidity found in the ME sample are discussed.