In May 2024, a consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) was published in the Wiener klinische Wochenschrift. This statement was created through the collaboration of experts and patient representatives from Germany, Austria and Switzerland, including three members of the medical advisory board of the German Society for ME/CFS. The initiator of the project was Kathryn Hoffmann, an expert at MedUni Vienna. The work is based on a chapter for the Austrian web tool for aftercare of post-acute conditions such as post-COVID-19.
Aim and content of the statement
The consensus statement aims to improve the medical care of ME/CFS patients. It is intended to provide guidance to physicians , therapists and decision-makers in the healthcare system.
Diagnosis of ME/CFS
The document highlights the cardinal symptom of post-exertional malaise (PEM) and recommends the Canadian consensus criteria (CCC) for diagnosis. It emphasizes the importance of a thorough history and clinical examination and offers concrete methods and questionnaires for this.
Treatment of ME/CFS
The statement presents two main pillars of treatment: pacing and symptom-relieving therapies. Since there are no curative therapies, approaches to alleviate symptoms such as orthostatic intolerance, pain, sleep disturbances and cognitive dysfunction are described.
Social and legal aspects
The document criticizes the fact that the social security systems in Germany, Austria and Switzerland are not sufficiently geared towards ME/CFS patients and describes difficulties in the recognition of incapacity for work and other support services.
Continuous update
The consensus statement is continuously updated to incorporate new scientific findings and is intended to serve as a resource for improving the care of ME/CFS patients in German-speaking countries.