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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
08:56
Evaluating the Role of Mitochondrial Function in Cancer-related Fatigue
Published on: May 17, 2018
What is fatigue? Pathological and nonpathological fatigue.
Leonard A Jason1, Meredyth Evans, Molly Brown
1Center for Community Research, DePaul University, 990 W. Fullerton Ave., Chicago, IL 60614, USA. Ljason@depaul.edu
Summary
Understanding fatigue construct validity is crucial. Distinguishing pathological from nonpathological fatigue aids in assessing this universal symptom across various illnesses and its societal impact.
Area of Science:
- Medical Psychology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Fatigue is a universal symptom reported across general and clinical populations.
- It is associated with diverse medical and psychological conditions, including cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, and anxiety.
- Chronic fatigue presents significant challenges in primary care and incurs substantial societal economic costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the construct validity of fatigue.
- To differentiate between pathological and nonpathological fatigue.
- To improve the assessment and understanding of fatigue's etiology and classification in various illness groups.
Main Methods:
- This study focuses on conceptual analysis and literature review.
- It synthesizes existing research on fatigue assessment and classification.
- The methodology involves examining the distinction between different types of fatigue.
Main Results:
- The construct validity of fatigue remains a complex issue for researchers.
- Clear distinctions between pathological and nonpathological fatigue are essential for accurate assessment.
- Current understanding of fatigue's etiology and classification requires further refinement.
Conclusions:
- A clearer understanding of fatigue's construct validity is needed.
- Differentiating fatigue types is critical for clinical assessment and research.
- Further research is necessary to address the etiology and classification of fatigue in diverse patient groups.
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