Chronic fatigue syndrome: a diagnostic challenge for the laboratory.
OBJECTIVE
To review the literature and current research about the causes of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).


METHODS
Recent research articles about CFS and data gathered by the author.


METHODS
Performed by the author.


METHODS
Performed by the author.


RESULTS
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disease of pain, excessive fatigue after minor exertion, cognitive difficulties, and other symptoms-all occurring in cycles. While its etiology is unclear, CFS is associated with abnormal results of immune system tests. There is no specific marker for the illness. Treatment is symptomatic, and the long-term outlook for recovery is good.


CONCLUSIONS
A rational, symptomatic approach to treating CFS patients can be made using the model developed at the author's institution. Research into the causes of CFS must continue.
Division of General Medicine, University at Buffalo, Erie County Medical Center, New York 14215, USA.
R J
RJ
Lanham
D015673:Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans