Many Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Carry a Viral Signature

Many Patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Carry a Viral Signature

Patients may be asking about a widely reported study linking mouse retroviruses with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The paper appears in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Researchers found gene sequences from murine leukemia virus-related viruses in 32 of 37 patients with CFS, but in only 3 of 44 normal controls. The authors say their findings do not establish a causative role for the viruses in CFS, but may simply reflect the susceptibility of CFS patients to such infections.

A PNAS commentary suggests that it may be appropriate to undertake interventional studies with antiretroviral drugs.

Link