Does Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Persist During Adolescence?

Approximately 25% of adolescents with CFS identified at age 13 or 16 years still had persistent chronic fatigue 2 to 3 years later.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), defined as disabling fatigue for 6 months that is often accompanied by additional symptoms, is a poorly understood condition with an uncertain prognosis.

To assess the prevalence and persistence of CFS during adolescence, researchers analyzed data from a longitudinal birth cohort study comprising approximately 14,000 children in England. Data were analyzed at three time points: ages 13, 16, and 18 years. CFS was defined using CDC criteria for symptom duration of >6 months. Results were as follows:

The prevalence of CFS was 1.5% at age 13 years, 2.2% at age 16, and 3.0% at age 18 years.
At 18, those with CFS were more likely to be girls, to have symptoms of depression, and to have a higher degree of family advers…

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

Does Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Persist During Adolescence?

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Reviewing Author