CFS Pathophysiology and Research Flashcards

Which body system is believed to play a central role in CFS pathophysiology according to current research?

Answer: Immune system dysregulation

Current research strongly implicates immune system dysregulation, including abnormal cytokine profiles and immune activation, in the pathophysiology of CFS.

What is the 'two-hit hypothesis' sometimes proposed for CFS?

Answer: An initial trigger (e.g., infection) combined with a second factor perpetuates the illness

The two-hit hypothesis suggests CFS may result from an initial trigger like an infection combined with a secondary factor that prevents normal recovery.

What does research suggest about mitochondrial function in CFS patients?

Answer: Evidence suggests impaired mitochondrial energy production in some CFS patients

Some CFS research has found evidence of impaired mitochondrial function, potentially contributing to the profound energy deficits experienced by patients.

Which biomarker abnormality has been reported in some CFS research studies?

Answer: Reduced natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxic activity

Reduced natural killer cell cytotoxic activity has been one of the more consistently reported immune abnormalities in CFS research literature.

What does the term 'neuroimmune' mean in the context of CFS?

Answer: Involving both the nervous system and the immune system

'Neuroimmune' describes conditions involving interactions between the nervous system and immune system, which is why CFS is sometimes classified as a neuroimmune disease.

Which finding in the autonomic nervous system has been documented in CFS research?

Answer: Autonomic dysfunction including reduced heart rate variability

Autonomic dysfunction, including reduced heart rate variability and abnormal responses to postural changes, has been documented in CFS patients.