Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Research: State of Knowldege Workshop, April 7 -8, 2011

摘要

The core symptom of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), sometimes referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or ME/CFS, is fatigue, an ubiquitous experience associated with many other illnesses. Additional symptoms range broadly and can be confused with manifestations of acute viral infections, chronic illnesses, or the mere impact of daily living. They include impaired memory, concentration problems, enlarged/tender nodes, sore throat, headaches, stiff head and neck, muscle pain, multi-joint pain, unrefreshing sleep, and general weakness. Individuals with ME/CFS, their families, and their caregivers have gone through untold suffering and difficulties from a disease that is poorly understood and for which there is relatively little to offer in the way of specific treatments. There is no question that this disorder needs further definition, and it is possible that ME/CFS may encompass more than one etiology. As research continues across body systems to uncover the underlying mechanisms and manifestations of ME/CFS, moving toward a more interdisciplinary, collaborative approach may be the most effective way to investigate this complex illness. The Office of Research on Women's Health, in collaboration with the Trans-NIH ME/CFS Working Group, hosted an NIH State of Knowledge Workshop on ME/CFS on April 7-8, 2011, to bring together patients, advocates, and scientists from across the nation to review and discuss the opportunities and gaps in ME/CFS research. The Workshop was broken into overlapping categories to address the multidisciplinary nature of this illness, including: infectious diseases, systems biology, immunology, neurology, exercise physiology and energy metabolism, diagnosis and biomarkers, treatment, and opportunities for communication.