Latest Research

ME/CFS, also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, is a serious debilitating multi-factorial long term physical condition that affects over 240,000 Australians.

For further background information on the different names and diagnostic criteria, go to http://www.meassociation.org.uk/about/

The 2019 NHMRC Report states:

Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), often referred to as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is a complex condition and can be highly debilitating and disabling. In the absence of a diagnostic test and lack of a universally accepted case definition, defining ME/CFS remains challenging. This is further compounded by heterogeneity in symptoms, and the lack of effective management or treatment.

It also identifies the lack of statistical data:

The only Australian prevalence estimate for ME/CFS is almost three decades old. This indicated that ME/CFS was estimated to affect 0.2-1% (48,000 – 240 000 people) of the Australian population, which is consistent with current international estimates.

Despite the condition affecting as many as 240,000 Australians, there has been limited research into patient care and health outcomes. There are currently no multidisciplinary clinics for patients across Australia.

Translational research collaborations

Recently as a result of patient advocacy, organisations around the world are working together to pull together information to support providers and patients to access best-practice management and patient care to improve prognosis and quality of life.

This translational ME/CFS service improvement research complements the bio-medical research which primarily focuses on understanding the pathophysiology of the condition, with a view to identifying biomarkers to assist in diagnosis and increase understanding of disease processes towards improved treatments (and, hopefully, a cure).

The South Australian ME/CFS/FMS Clinical Research Centre is working to fast track research into daily care. The multi-agency centre collaborates with interstate and international researchers, prioritising research that directly affects patient care, service funding and improved health outcomes.

For further information contact Bridges & Pathways email bpclients5159@gmail.com to receive regular news and updates.

Latest research findings

Diagnosing and Treating Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) V2 – U.S. ME/CFS Clinician Coalition –July 2020 

The effect of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) severity on cellular bioenergetic function, Tomas et al, April 2020 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0231136

Healthcare Special Issue “ME/CFS – The Severely and Very Severely Affected”, Guest editors Friedman, Bateman and de Meirleir, Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2020. https://www.mdpi.com/journal/healthcare/special_issues/me_cfs_issue