How is paediatric chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis diagnosed and managed by paediatricians? An Australian Paediatric Research Network Study. (10th July 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Knight, Sarah; Harvey, Adrienne; Towns, Susan; Payne, Donald; Lubitz, Lionel; Rowe, Kathy; Reveley, Colette; Hennel, Sabine; Hiscock, Harriet; Scheinberg, Adam
• Is Part Of: Journal of paediatrics and child health. Volume 50:Number 12(2014:Dec.)
• Page Start: 1000
• Page End: 1007
• Publication Date: 2014-07-10
• Subjects: Children -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; 618.92
• DOI: 10.1111/jpc.12677
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1034-4810

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <sec id="jpc12677-sec-0001" sec-type="section"> <title>Aim</title> <p>The diagnosis and management of paediatric chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encepnalomyelitis (CFS/ME) represent ongoing challenges for paediatricians. A better understanding of current approaches at a national level is important in informing where research and education could improve treatment outcomes. We aimed to examine current diagnosis and management practices for CFS/ME by Australian paediatricians.</p> </sec> <sec id="jpc12677-sec-0002" sec-type="section"> <title>Method</title> <p>An online survey was sent to members of the Australian Paediatric Research Network. The primary outcomes of interest included diagnostic criteria used, medical investigations and management practices in paediatric CFS/ME.</p> </sec> <sec id="jpc12677-sec-0003" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>One hundred seventy‐eight (41%) of 430 eligible paediatricians responded, with 70 of the 178 (39%) reporting that they diagnose and manage CFS/ME as part of their practice. Medical investigations used for diagnosis were variable. Conditions that more than half of the paediatricians reported as commonly co‐occurring (i.e. present in >50% of cases) included somatisation disorders, anxiety, depression and fibromyalgia. There was wide variation in behavioural and pharmacological management strategies but most paediatricians commonly engaged a school teacher, physiotherapist and/or psychologist as part of their management.</p> </sec> <sec id="jpc12677-sec-0004" sec-type="section"> <title>Conclusion</title> <p>The diagnostic and management practices of paediatricians for CFS/ME within Australia vary widely. This likely reflects a paucity of paediatric‐specific guidelines, together with limited evidence to guide best practice and limited training in this area. There is a need for guidance and education for the diagnosis and management of paediatric CFS/ME in Australia.</p> </sec> </abstract>