Mechanisms underlying chronic fatigue, a symptom too often overlooked II-From deregulated immunity to neuroinflammation and its consequences

Abstract

Hypothalamus stimulation by inflammatory and/or stress signals can trigger activation of the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which includes the hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal gland. Acute activation of the HPA axis is fundamental for the fight or flight response. It allows a maximal energy mobilization available for an effort, whilst erasing fatigue. On the contrary, the chronic activation of this axis decreases muscle efficiency and leads to chronic fatigue. In this second part of our review will be discussed several strategic points that need to be considered for attempting to understand and treat together inflammation and chronic fatigue.