Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 13, 2026

A Multi-Modal Approach to Assessing Recovery in Youth Athletes Following Concussion
10:31

A Multi-Modal Approach to Assessing Recovery in Youth Athletes Following Concussion

Published on: September 25, 2014

Physical and functional impact of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis in childhood

Gwen Kennedy1, Christine Underwood, Jill Janette Freda Belch

  • 1Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Division of Medical Sciences, Mail Box 1, Centre for Cardiovascular and Lung Biology, Vascular and Inflammatory Diseases Research Unit, Dundee DD1 9SY, United Kingdom. g.y.kennedy@dundee.ac.uk

Pediatrics
|May 19, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)/myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) experience significantly reduced quality of life and functional impairment compared to healthy children. This study highlights the profound impact of CFS/ME on children's daily lives.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Health
  • Chronic Illness
  • Quality of Life Research

Background:

  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) significantly impacts pediatric populations.
  • Understanding the quality of life and functional impairment in children with CFS/ME is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare self-reported and parent-reported quality of life in pediatric patients with CFS/ME against healthy controls.
  • To determine the extent of functional and physical impairment in children diagnosed with CFS/ME.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized the Child Health Questionnaire for 25 pediatric patients with CFS/ME and 23 matched healthy controls.
  • Collected data on illness background, status, and school attendance for CFS/ME patients.

Main Results:

  • Children with CFS/ME reported significantly lower scores in 10 of 14 quality of life domains.
  • Global health and physical role/social limitations were most affected, with scores drastically lower than controls.
  • Illness duration averaged 3 years, often with infectious onset, severely impacting school attendance.

Conclusions:

  • Quality of life in children with CFS/ME is profoundly diminished compared to healthy peers.
  • CFS/ME leads to substantial functional and physical impairment in pediatric patients.
  • Findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and support for children with CFS/ME.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Evaluating the Role of Mitochondrial Function in Cancer-related Fatigue08:56

Evaluating the Role of Mitochondrial Function in Cancer-related Fatigue

Published on: May 17, 2018

An Investigation of the Effects of Sports-related Concussion in Youth Using Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and the Head Impact Telemetry System07:02

An Investigation of the Effects of Sports-related Concussion in Youth Using Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and the Head Impact Telemetry System

Published on: January 12, 2011

Related Concept Videos

Multiple Sclerosis l: Introduction01:19

Multiple Sclerosis l: Introduction

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that affects the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It is an inflammatory demyelinating disorder and a leading cause of neurological disability in young adults.EpidemiologyMS commonly begins between 20 and 40 years of age and is twice as common in women. Its exact cause remains unclear, but genetic susceptibility contributes, with higher risk in first-degree relatives and identical twins. A greater...
Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology01:22

Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology

The disease process of myasthenia gravis begins at the neuromuscular junction, where antibodies attack key proteins needed for muscle activation. This immune reaction weakens signal transmission, leading to the characteristic muscle fatigue and weakness that define the condition.Immune-Mediated DamageIn most individuals, antibodies target acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) on the postsynaptic membrane of muscle cells. By blocking acetylcholine binding, these antibodies prevent the nerve signal...
Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis01:23

Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis

Cystic fibrosis (CF), an autosomal recessive disorder, significantly affects the function of exocrine glands. This genetically inherited disease is characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus, which can severely affect various organs and systems in the body.
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...
Muscle Recovery and Fatigue01:24

Muscle Recovery and Fatigue

Muscle fatigue refers to the decline in a muscle's ability to maintain the force of contraction after prolonged activity. It primarily stems from changes within muscle fibers. Even before experiencing muscle fatigue, one may feel tired and have the urge to stop the activity. This response, known as central fatigue, occurs due to changes in the central nervous system, namely the brain and spinal cord. While there is no single mechanism that induces fatigue, it may serve as a protective response...
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle01:28

Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle

The clinical conditions affecting the skeletal muscle tissue are broadly categorized as musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders.
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.