Biochemical Abnormalities in Children with ME/CFS

Purpose: This document highlights recent research led by Dr. Gwen Kennedy and Dr. Faisel Khan at the University of Dundee, investigating the biochemical and vascular abnormalities in children with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Funded by ME Research UK, The Young ME Sufferers (Tymes) Trust, and Search ME, the study explores the long-term health implications and potential cardiovascular risks for young patients.

Key Points:

1. Context of Illness in Children
   • ME/CFS significantly affects around 9,000 children under 16 in the UK, disrupting physical, emotional, and intellectual development during critical years.
   • The transformation of an active child into one who cannot attend school or socialize is particularly poignant.
2. Research Focus and Methods
   • Researchers examined blood samples from 25 children with ME/CFS (aged 10–18) and 23 healthy controls.
   • Tests assessed oxidative stress, vitamin levels, white blood cell apoptosis, blood pressure, and arterial health using non-invasive techniques.
3. Main Findings
   • Oxidative Stress: Increased levels of oxidative stress were observed, marked by elevated isoprostanes and reduced vitamins C and E.
   • White Blood Cell Apoptosis: A higher percentage of white blood cells underwent programmed cell death, potentially linked to viral infections or immune dysfunction.
   • Cardiovascular Indicators: There was a trend toward increased arterial stiffness and cholesterol clustering, suggesting potential cardiovascular risks as the children age.
4. Possible Mechanisms
   • Oxidative stress may arise from dietary antioxidant deficiencies or the release of reactive free radicals from white blood cells, potentially triggered by exercise.
   • The findings also align with reports of disease onset following viral infections, though a causal link requires further investigation.
5. Implications for Healthcare and Research
   • While children with ME/CFS are at no immediate cardiovascular risk, subtle markers could become more pronounced over time.
   • Researchers advocate for intervention trials, including antioxidant or antiviral therapies, to mitigate long-term risks.
6. Call for Action
   • The findings underscore the need for ongoing research into the immune and vascular processes in ME/CFS.
   • It also calls for improved clinical care and targeted treatments to address both symptoms and potential long-term consequences.

Target Audience:

• Healthcare Professionals: Physicians and researchers studying pediatric ME/CFS and its broader health impacts.
• Advocates and Families: Stakeholders advocating for increased awareness and care for children with ME/CFS.
• Policymakers and Funders: Decision-makers focused on supporting biomedical research and patient-centered interventions.

Overall Outcome: This research provides evidence of significant biochemical abnormalities in children with ME/CFS, emphasizing the importance of early identification and management to minimize long-term health risks.