Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Primary Fibromyalgia Syndrome as recognized by GPs

Abstract

Background. Prevalence studies on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) are rare. Because of the similarity in symptoms, the prevalence of Primary Fibromyalgia Syndrome (PFS) was investigated at the same time. Objectives. To determine the prevalence of CFS and PFS as recognized by GPs in The Netherlands and to inform them of the existence of CFS. Methods. A postal questionnaire was sent to all GPs. Results. The questionnaire was returned by 60% of the GPs. Seventy-three per cent reported one or more CFS patients and 83% one or more PFS patients in their practice. Conclusion. The estimated prevalence of CFS as recognized by GPs of 112 (PFS 157) patients per 100,000 is a minimum estimate.