CFS CFS Pathophysiology and Research 2

Question 1

What infectious trigger has been most commonly associated with the onset of CFS?

Accepted Answer

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and other viral infections

Answer

CFS frequently begins after a viral illness, with Epstein-Barr virus among the most studied triggers, though many other infections can also precipitate it.

Question 2

What does 'post-infectious fatigue syndrome' (PIFS) describe in relation to CFS?

Accepted Answer

A subset of CFS that develops following an acute infection

Answer

Post-infectious fatigue syndrome describes cases where CFS develops following an acute infection, representing a significant subset of CFS patients.

Question 3

Which brain imaging finding has been reported in some CFS research?

Accepted Answer

Neuroinflammation and reduced gray matter volume in some studies

Answer

Some CFS neuroimaging studies have reported evidence of neuroinflammation and reduced gray matter volume compared to healthy controls.

Question 4

What does the 'metabolic trap' hypothesis propose about CFS?

Accepted Answer

An enzyme deficiency traps tryptophan metabolism, contributing to CFS symptoms

Answer

The metabolic trap hypothesis proposes that an enzyme deficiency creates a metabolic trap in tryptophan metabolism, which may contribute to the pathology of CFS.

Question 5

Which type of cells has been found to behave abnormally under mechanical stress in CFS research by Robert Naviaux and others?

Accepted Answer

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) showing altered ion channel function

Answer

Research has shown that peripheral blood mononuclear cells from CFS patients exhibit altered ion channel function and abnormal responses to stress compared to healthy controls.

CFS - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Practice Test

CFS - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Practice Test

CFS CFS Pathophysiology and Research 2