The epidemiology of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalitis in children

Arch Dis Child. 2014 Feb;99(2):171-4. doi: 10.1136/archdischild-2012-302156. Epub 2013 Oct 21.

Abstract

Most paediatricians regularly see children with chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalitis (CFS/ME) in their clinics and yet we know little about how common it is, who is affected, whether there are risk factors and how likely a child is to recover (or what might predict recovery). Recent research suggests that this illness is more complicated than previously thought and that rather than being an illness found in middle class families, it is more common in those who are socially deprived. This article reviews what is currently known about this important but little understood condition.

Keywords: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome; Epidemiology; General Paediatrics.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / diagnosis
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / epidemiology*
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / etiology
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Risk Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors