Postviral fatigue syndrome

Article Abstract:

The postviral fatigue syndrome is characterized by fatigue lasting at least six months, mild fever, sore throat, painful lymph nodes, headaches, muscle and joint pain, increased sensitivity to light, forgetfulness, irritability, concentration difficulties, depression, and sleep disturbance. This syndrome may or may not develop after an acute infection and may occur in epidemic or infrequent forms. The disorder affects mainly young adults but has been reported in children. The occurrence of this syndrome in children is commonly associated with lethargy, headache, abdominal pain, and muscle weakness, and to a lesser extent, congestion of the pharynx. It also involves tenderness of neck lymph nodes and muscle, an excess of lymph cells, increased levels of creatine kinase (a muscle and brain enzyme), abnormalities in immune factors, and changes in electrical activities of the brain and muscle. Although genetic material from viruses has been detected in the muscle of patients with this syndrome, the causes of chronic fatigue syndrome have not been clarified. The syndrome may be caused by a combination of biological, social, and psychological factors. Because of the many possible causes of chronic fatigue syndrome, several approaches to managing this illness have been tried, including drug therapy with antiviral agents, pain-relieving drugs, immune proteins, and vitamins; rest; changes in diet; and counseling for both the child and family. It is recommended that the child and family should not be burdened with the diagnosis of postviral syndrome, which leads to extensive unnecessary investigation and untested treatment. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Care and treatment, Diagnosis, Causes of, Chronic fatigue syndrome

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Pseudo-Bartter's syndrome in cystic fibrosis

Article Abstract:

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common inherited disease among Caucasians. It is characterized by chronic respiratory infections, insufficient excretion of digestive enzymes, and increased amounts of electrolytes (salts like sodium, potassium, and chloride) in sweat. Children with CF are treated with enzyme supplements, low-salt milk, and respiratory therapy. Seven cases of children with CF are reported in which the children failed to thrive (grow normally) despite appropriate care and treatment. The cause was determined to be pseudo-Bartter's syndrome, which is distinguished by metabolic alkalosis (low acid levels in the blood) and abnormally low levels of electrolytes, but without dehydration. Pseudo-Bartter's syndrome generally occurred when the children with CF experienced heavy losses of sweat in warmer months. It was frequently aggravated by infection, vomiting, or diarrhea (which causes electrolyte loss). The children improved when sodium or potassium supplements were administered, according to blood levels. The report indicates that this syndrome should be considered when children with CF fail to grow properly. Likewise, CF should be considered as a possible diagnosis when children develop metabolic alkalosis and abnormally low electrolyte levels. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Complications and side effects, Cystic fibrosis

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