Young, Pablo, Finn, Bárbara C, Bruetman, Julio et al. · Medicina · 2010
Fatigue is one of the most common reasons people visit doctors, affecting about 30% of patients. This article explains how doctors should think about different types of fatigue—including chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), which affects 0.2–0.7% of people. The authors emphasize that finding and treating the underlying cause is the best approach, though about 20% of patients never get a clear diagnosis.
This clinical review underscores the high prevalence and substantial social and economic burden of chronic fatigue, including ME/CFS. By clarifying diagnostic approaches and emphasizing the importance of systematic evaluation, the paper advocates for improved physician recognition and management of ME/CFS as a distinct condition.
This editorial does not present original research data, experimental evidence, or mechanistic insights into ME/CFS pathophysiology. It does not evaluate specific diagnostic tests, biomarkers, or treatment efficacy; rather, it summarizes existing clinical practice and diagnostic frameworks.
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