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How is paediatric chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis diagnosed and managed by paediatricians? An A ustralian Paediatric Research Network Study
Author(s) -
Knight Sarah,
Harvey Adrienne,
Towns Susan,
Payne Donald,
Lubitz Lionel,
Rowe Kathy,
Reveley Colette,
Hennel Sabine,
Hiscock Harriet,
Scheinberg Adam
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
journal of paediatrics and child health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.631
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1440-1754
pISSN - 1034-4810
DOI - 10.1111/jpc.12677
Subject(s) - medicine , chronic fatigue syndrome , anxiety , depression (economics) , pediatrics , family medicine , psychiatry , macroeconomics , economics
Aim 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. Method An online survey was sent to members of the A ustralian P aediatric R esearch N etwork. The primary outcomes of interest included diagnostic criteria used, medical investigations and management practices in paediatric CFS / ME . Results 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. Conclusion The diagnostic and management practices of paediatricians for CFS / ME within A ustralia 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 A ustralia.