Pathophysiology in muscle fatigue in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: a scoping review
10.3969/j.issn.1006-9771.2026.08.003
- VernacularTitle:慢性疲劳综合征肌肉病理生理的Scoping综述
- Author:
Zilong WANG
1
;
Hongyu LI
1
;
Zhihao WANG
1
;
Hongxin LI
1
;
Yinying JIANG
1
;
Qiang TANG
1
Author Information
1. Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150040, China
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
chronic fatigue syndrome;
muscle fatigue;
pathophysiology;
scoping review
- From:
Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice
2026;32(8):892-902
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
ObjectiveTo systematically summarize the relevant pathophysiology underlying muscle fatigue in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). MethodsDatabases including PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, Cochrane Library, EBSCO (CINAHL), CNKI, Wanfang Data and VIP Database were searched from their inception to July, 2025 for basic and clinical studies related to ME/CFS. Multidimensional evidence involving mitochondrial, neuromuscular junction dysfunction, autonomic dysregulation and immune-inflammatory responses was integrated. The role of muscles in the central-immune-metabolic-neural regulatory network and its association with clinical phenotypes were evaluated. ResultsPatients with ME/CFS commonly presented with impaired mitochondrial energy supply, oxidative stress, ion homeostasis disorders, reduced stability of neuromuscular junction transmission, insufficient central drive and postural intolerance. These abnormalities resulted in a predisposition to cross the anaerobic threshold and trigger post-exertional malaise. ConclusionMuscle pathophysiology plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and symptom persistence of ME/CFS. Rehabilitation practice should prioritize safety boundaries to avoid post-exertional malaise.
