Lab test important to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Dehydroepiandrosterone
DHEA is a major adrenal adrenogenic secretory product and a major hormone in both the immune response and aging. DHEA levels are reduced in all states of immune reactivity including CFIDs. Because DHEA may have an important regulatory function in cell-mediated immune response, it seems important to obtain information on the levels of this hormone.
Magnesium
Reduced magnesium levels occur in patients with immune hyperactivity. Further, reduced magnesium is a sign of malaborption syndromes, which are common in people with Chronic Fatigue and are associated with muscle pain and wasting.
Cortisol
The influence on cortisol levels is of particular interest because it has been determined that plasma cortisol levels in CFS patients are abnormally low, probably due to a lack of cortisol - releasing hormone. As hormones including cortisol effect immune function, cortisol levels and adrenal function (cosyntropin) need to be measured.
HHV-6
Studies of several clusters of patients with the diagnosis of CFS have postulated a role of HHV-6 in the pathogenesis of the disease on the basis of serological data, virus isolation, and Southern blot and PCR analysis.
IL2 receptors
This testing measures the IL2 receptors, which are a measurement of the hyperactivity of the immune system. This test is important because it tells whether or not the therapy is working.
Gammaglobulin (IgG, IgA, IgM)
This test as well as IgG subclasses are performed to determine whether or not the patient is Hypogammaglobulinemia and if IVIG treatment is required and in conjunction with the IVIG treatment itself. It is medically necessary in order to determine that the dosage of and time of the IVGG infusions are correct.
Thyroxine, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Triodothyronine, Thyroxine Free,and T3 Free
Hypothyroidism is part of the differential diagnosis of fatigue as is anemia. Hashaimoto's Thyroiditis is found in 10 to 20 % of patients with Chronic Fatigue. The testing utilized would indicate such abnormalities and how to treat them. In addition, it becomes even more important as thyroid function is integrally limited to the function of the immune system.
Calcium
Total protein
Glucose
C-reactive protein
ANA and rheumatoid factor