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Published on: May 31, 2016
A twin study of chronic fatigue
D Buchwald1, R Herrell, S Ashton
1Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. dedra@u.washington.edu
Psychosomatic Medicine
|November 24, 2001
Summary
Genetic factors may influence chronic fatigue syndrome. A twin study found higher concordance rates in identical twins, suggesting a genetic role in unexplained chronic fatigue.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The causes of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) remain largely unknown.
- Genetic predisposition is suspected to play a role in CFS development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the contribution of genetic and environmental factors to unexplained chronic fatigue.
- To assess the heritability of chronic fatigue using a twin study design.
Main Methods:
- A twin study involving 146 female twin pairs reporting at least six months of fatigue.
- Twins were assessed for fatigue using three progressively strict definitions.
- Concordance rates and heritability estimates were calculated for monozygotic and dizygotic twins.
Main Results:
- Higher concordance rates for chronic fatigue were observed in monozygotic twins compared to dizygotic twins.
- For idiopathic chronic fatigue, concordance was 55% in monozygotic and 19% in dizygotic twins.
- Heritability estimates for idiopathic chronic fatigue liability were 51%.
Conclusions:
- Findings support the familial aggregation of fatigue symptoms.
- Genetic factors likely contribute to the etiology of chronic fatigue syndrome.
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