ME/CFS: The Importance of a Thorough Differential Diagnosis

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ME/CFS is often used as a broad diagnostic category, but in some cases underlying medical conditions may remain partially investigated or overlooked. 
 
Commonly associated factors can include viral infections, post-exertional malaise (PEM), POTS, fibromyalgia-like pain, immune or vascular abnormalities, neuroinflammation, and possible glymphatic or lymphatic system dysfunction. 
 
At the same time, important conditions such as thyroid disease, adrenal insufficiency, lupus, hemophilia or other bleeding disorders, infections, vasculitis, and other systemic illnesses may not always be fully ruled out. 
 
The examples listed here are intended to mention just a few overlooked, symptom-related, and potentially undiagnosed conditions that may contribute to complex presentations. 
 
A careful differential diagnosis is essential before assuming all symptoms are solely explained by ME/CFS.

 

© 2000-2030 Sieglinde W. Alexander. All writings by Sieglinde W. Alexander have a five-year copyright. Library of Congress Card Number: LCN 00-192742 ISBN: 0-9703195-0-9  


 

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