History of ME/CFS

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex, debilitating, long-term illness that affects multiple body systems, including the nervous and immune systems. The history of ME/CFS is marked by a series of outbreaks, evolving diagnostic criteria, and ongoing research into its causes and potential treatments.

Outbreaks

The first recorded outbreak of an illness resembling ME/CFS occurred in 1934 at the Los Angeles County Hospital, where over 200 staff members fell ill with symptoms similar to poliomyelitis. This outbreak was initially thought to be a new form of polio, but the patients' symptoms did not progress as expected.

In the 1950s, a series of outbreaks occurred in various locations around the world, including Royal Free Hospital in London. The illness was named "Royal Free disease" and later "myalgic encephalomyelitis" (ME) to reflect the muscle pain (myalgia) and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) experienced by many patients.

Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS have evolved over time. In 1988, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed the first formal criteria, known as the Holmes criteria, which required the presence of at least six months of chronic fatigue and eight out of eleven secondary symptoms.

In 1994, the CDC revised the criteria to the Fukuda criteria, which required only four out of eight secondary symptoms, broadening the definition of the syndrome. In 2015, the Institute of Medicine (now the National Academy of Medicine) proposed a new set of criteria, emphasizing post-exertional malaise and unrefreshing sleep as core symptoms.

Research

Research into ME/CFS has been ongoing since the 1950s, with a focus on understanding the underlying causes of the illness. Early theories suggested a viral origin, with candidates including Epstein-Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6, and enteroviruses. More recent research has explored the role of the immune system, with studies finding evidence of immune dysfunction in ME/CFS patients.

Despite these advances, the exact cause of ME/CFS remains unknown, and there is currently no cure. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

See Also

• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
• Post-viral fatigue syndrome

History of ME/CFS Resources
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