Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Case Definitions
Authors: Leonard A. Jason, Dylan Damrongvachiraphan, Jessica Hunnell,
Lindsey Bartgis,
Abigail Brown, Meredyth Evans, and Molly Brown
Affiliation: Center for Community Research, 990 W. Fullerton Ave.,
Suite 3100, DePaul University,
Chicago, Il 60614, USA
Address correspondence to Leonard A. Jason, ljason@depaul.edu
Received 2 June 2011; Revised 24 October 2011; Accepted 26 October 2011
Abstract This article reviews a Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
(ME) case definition based on criteria offered over the
past five decades. The current paper looks to review case
definitions for ME based on Ramsay's definition [41], the
"London" criteria [45], Hyde's Nightingale definition [16],
and Goudsmit et al.'s criteria [11]. In general, these theorists
have argued that ME is now defined differently than chronic
fatigue syndrome because ME involves an acute onset, postexertional
malaise and neurocognitive problems, and fatigue
is not a major criteria.
We will compare these theorists to
the recently published International Consensus Criteria for
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis [3].We will also attempt to consolidate
aspects of different current definitions in order to
suggest possible core features of ME.
This article will also
recommend the importance of providing explicit, objective
criteria on specific key symptoms. In addition, structured
interview schedules along with specific medical tests are
recommended to assure this illness is assessed in a consistent
way across settings.
It is hoped these developments will
lead to increased reliability of the ME case definition, as
well as more frequent use of these criteria by investigators.
Keywords myalgic encephalomyelitis; case definitions
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