Validation of the energy index point score to serially measure the degree of disability in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Background: A simple quantitative accurate method for assessing the degree of fatigue in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is necessary for physicians and patients. Severity of the disease and recovery can, thus, be assayed.

Patient And Methods: From February 1-27, 2007, fifty-six consecutive CFS patients at a single treatment center were simultaneously evaluated by the patient with the fatigue severity score (FSS), and by consensus of both patient and physician by the energy index (EI) point score.

Results: The FSS and EI correlated well, 0.67, p<0.001.

Conclusion: The El point score is a validated reliable method to assess fatigue in CFS patients.