Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Etiology

The cause of chronic fatigue immunodysfunction syndrome is unknown and multiple theories exist. Researchers are looking at several hypotheses. So far, those hypotheses remain theories because they have not been consistently proven. However, there is scientific evidence in certain subsets of chronic fatigue immunodysfunction patients.

Some experts believe chronic fatigue immunodysfunction is triggered by a certain event; those triggers include toxic exposure to chemicals, fungus, viruses, and bacterial infections.

In addition, studies do indicate there may be some correlation between chronic fatigue immunodysfunction and growth hormone (GH), natural killer (NK) cells, RNaseL pathway and cytokines, an alteration in the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and autonomic nervous system changes. There has also been research and some discussion relating ciguatera toxin and chronic fatigue immunodysfunction. Because of the increased incidence of allergy in chronic fatigue immunodysfunction patients, some feel it may be connected to the immune system and IgM antibodies.

Laboratory findings that may be part of the diagnostic criteria for a certain subset of patients with chronic fatigue immunodysfunction are the ANA (Antinuclear Antibody), altered levels of immunoglobulins, and Epstein-Barr virus related antibodies.

The Thyroid gland, located in the neck near the "Adams apple" is responsible for directing the body's metabolism of turning food and oxygen into energy for cellular activity and storing iodine. It produces a hormone called thyroxine (T4). Thyroxine is converted into another hormone called T3. The levels of these hormones affect heart rate, body temperature, growth, energy disposition, and other metabolic activities. Like reactive hypoglycemia, the peripheral tissue resists even normal levels of thyroid hormones. This "thyroid resistance" and its suspected presence in some fibromyalgia patients has been discussed by Dr. Starlanyl (Starlanyl and Copeland, 2001, pp.168-170). And, according to Garrison and Breeding (2003), this hypometabolism may be present in chronic fatigue syndrome (chronic fatigue immunodysfunction) and other related syndromes. (See resources).

I know some of these are very big terms, however, it is important to know that researchers are looking at many different causes.

As with other disorders such as fibromyalgia (FM), rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and hypertension, a direct cause cannot be identified, classifying it as a clinical condition. Unlike fibromyalgia, however, no single theory has been reported consistently enough to be typical of the syndrome. The origin and cause are still to be decided, so we must look to the horizon for coming discoveries and thank those who have already contributed so much. Possibly, during our era, medical and biological scientists will be successful because of their commitment, and our support.