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Current Rheumatology Reports
Published in: Current Rheumatology Reports 2/2019

01-02-2019 | Fatigue | Chronic Pain (R Staud, Section Editor)

The Invisible Burden of Chronic Fatigue in the Community: a Narrative Review

Authors: Scott J. Fatt, Erin Cvejic, Andrew R. Lloyd, Ute Vollmer-Conna, Jessica Elise Beilharz

Published in: Current Rheumatology Reports | Issue 2/2019

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Unexplained fatigue is commonly reported in the general population, with varying severity. Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) sits at the extreme of the fatigue continuum, yet more individuals experience unexplained prolonged fatigue (1–6-month duration) or chronic fatigue (> 6 months) that, although debilitating, does not fulfil ME/CFS criteria. This review examines the empirical literature comparing symptoms for those with prolonged fatigue, chronic fatigue and ME/CFS.

Recent Findings

Substantial overlap of self-reported psychological, physical and functional impairments exists between chronic fatigue and ME/CFS. The conversion rate from prolonged or chronic fatigue to ME/CFS is not understood. Current research has failed to uncover factors accounting for differences in fatigue trajectories, nor incorporate comprehensive, longitudinal assessments extending beyond self-reported symptoms.

Summary

Distinguishing factors between prolonged fatigue, chronic fatigue and ME/CFS remain poorly understood, highlighting a need for longitudinal studies integrating biopsychosocial approaches to inform early management and targeted rehabilitation strategies.
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Metadata
Title
The Invisible Burden of Chronic Fatigue in the Community: a Narrative Review
Authors
Scott J. Fatt
Erin Cvejic
Andrew R. Lloyd
Ute Vollmer-Conna
Jessica Elise Beilharz
Publication date
01-02-2019
Publisher
Springer US
Keyword
Fatigue
Published in
Current Rheumatology Reports / Issue 2/2019
Print ISSN: 1523-3774
Electronic ISSN: 1534-6307
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11926-019-0804-2
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