Myalgic encephalomyelitis (or encephalopathy)/chronic fatigue syndrome: diagnosis and management

This guideline covers diagnosing and managing myalgic encephalomyelitis (or encephalopathy)/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) in children, young people and adults. It aims to improve awareness and understanding about ME/CFS and when to suspect it, so that people are diagnosed earlier. It includes recommendations on diagnosis, assessment and care planning, safeguarding, access to care and managing ME/CFS and its symptoms. These recommendations were developed based on evidence reviewed before the COVID-19 pandemic. We have not reviewed evidence on the effects of COVID-19, so it should not be assumed that these recommendations apply to people diagnosed with post-COVID-19 syndrome. NICE has produced a guideline on managing the long-term effects of COVID-19.WHO IS IT FOR? Health and social care professionals, including those working or providing input into educational and occupational health services. Commissioners. People with suspected or diagnosed ME/CFS, their families and carers and the public. This guideline was commissioned by NICE and developed at the National Guideline Centre which is hosted by the Royal College of Physicians. This guideline updates and replaces NICE guideline CG53 (published August 2007).