2nd February 2024

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology has not been established yet, but it is postulated that it could be neuro-immuno-endocrine related. 

NICE guidelines recommend a diagnosis if there is persistent fatigue for at least 6 weeks or longer and debilitating an individual’s functioning, which cannot be explained by another illness and also has all of the following:

• Debilitating fatigue, which is worsened by activity. It is not caused by excessive cognitive, physical, emotional or social exertion and is not relieved by rest.
• Post-exertional malaise in which worsening of symptoms is often delayed in onset by hours to days and, is disproportionate to the activity, and has a prolonged recovery time.
• Unrefreshing sleep, disturbed sleep, or both.
• Cognitive difficulties, including word-finding difficulties, slowed responsiveness, poor concentration and memory problems.