Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and the Body's Immune Defense System

Book excerpt: New evidence on the origins and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome! Written by one of the leading experts in the field, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and the Body?s Immune Defense System presents vital new information on a crippling disorder that has the biomedical community searching for answers. Current research suggests CFS is associated with immune abnormalities that can potentially account for its origin and development. With at least one-third of tested CFS patients showing evidence of activation of the body?s “immune army,” this book is crucial reading for all patients with CFS and for the healthcare professionals they trust. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and the Body?s Immune Defense System presents a thorough examination of the connection between immunology and this debilitating disorder. The book is essential as a primer on the human immune system (explaining fundamental terms and concepts), an overview of immunopathology, and a review of therapeutic interventions that are immune-based. It also explores the links between immune, endocrine, and nervous system abnormalities and the need for a combined research approach to understanding the different manifestations of CFS. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and the Body?s Immune Defense System explains: how infectious viruses, bacteria, and fungi could be direct causes of CFS how therapeutic tools like herbal medicine, vaccines, and cell therapy are being used in CFS research how CFS research applies to related conditions, such as fibromyalgia, Gulf War syndrome, sick building syndrome, and multiple chemical sensitivity With a consensus diagnostic tool for CFS still lacking, continued, aggressive research is vital to solving the riddle of its origin. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and the Body?s Immune Defense System represents a significant step forward in the search, giving new hope to patients and new insight to healthcare professionals.