The Development of a Revised Canadian Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Case Definition

摘要: Problem statement: Several investigators have indicated that case defi nitions for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) are characterized by vaguely worded criteria lack operational definitions and guidelines. The most widely used CFS definition is the Fukuda et al. criteria, which uses polythetic (i.e., patients only requir ed to four out of a possible eight symptoms). Yet two these symptoms (post-exertional malais e memory/concentration problems) an essential feature this illness do not require be present among all patients. Significant methodologi cal problems could occur if in different settings recruit samples with p ercentages core symptoms. In contrast, Canadian clinical does spec ific ME/CFS such as post-exertional malaise problems. provision operationally explicit, objective on specific key might reduce criterion var iance source unreliability. addition, th use structured interview schedules will ensure t hat assessed consistent way across settings. Conclusion/Recommendations: article, we specified explicit rules determining whether critical meet using revised questionnaire has been developed assess co re It hoped developments lead increased reliability well more frequent u se investigators.