TNF-alpha and chronic fatigue syndrome

J Clin Immunol. 1999 Sep;19(5):314-6. doi: 10.1023/a:1020595709352.

Abstract

Based upon the clinical presentation of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), we hypothesized that proinflammatory cytokines may play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. We therefore undertook a retrospective cross-sectional study to examine the role of TNF-alpha in patients with CFS. Our results suggest a significant increase serum TNF-alpha in patients with CFS (P<0.0001) compared to non-CFS controls. This study supports the further examination of the role of proinflammatory mediators in CFS. Furthermore, the clinical testing of TNF-alpha blockers and other antiinflammatory agents for the treatment of this disease is warranted.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / blood
  • Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic / immunology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / metabolism*

Substances

  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha