Review Chronic fatigue syndrome related to herpes simplex viruses infection – a narrative review, 2024, Bieńkowski

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BIEŃKOWSKI, Kuba, BIELASKA, Albert, WESOŁEK-BIELASKA, Ewelina, KOŁODZIEJ, Wojciech, GAŁĄZKA, Jakub Krzysztof and GRESZTA, Magdalena. Chronic fatigue syndrome related to herpes simplex viruses infection – a narrative review. Quality in Sport. Online. 21 July 2024. Vol. 17, p. 52946. [Accessed 24 July 2024]. DOI 10.12775/QS.2024.17.52946.

Chronic fatigue syndrome related to herpes simplex viruses infection – a narrative review
Authors

• Kuba Bieńkowski Medical University of Lublin https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0589-2035
• Albert Bielaska Medical University of Lublin https://orcid.org/0009-0000-0976-1445
• Ewelina Wesołek-BielaskaMedical University of Lublin https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7819-2661
• Wojciech Kołodziej Medical University of Lublin https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4752-387X
• Jakub Krzysztof Gałązka Medical University of Lublin https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3128-773X
• Magdalena Greszta Catholic University of Lublin John Paul II https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0874-4704

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2024.17.52946

Keywords
chronic fatigue syndrome, herpes simples viruses, neurology, infectious diseases, neuroinflammatory

Abstract

This article reviews the potential impact of herpes simplex viruses (HSV) on chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). HSV-1 and HSV-2 are prevalent pathogens, with HSV-1 acquired early in life and HSV-2 typically transmitted sexually.

Studies have shown an association between HSV and CFS, with HSV-1 detected in saliva and cerebrospinal fluid of CFS patients and elevated HSV-2 antibodies found in CFS patients.

Immunological abnormalities, including increased pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, suggest immune dysregulation in CFS patients infected with HSV.

HSV infections can also disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and autonomic nervous system, impacting energy metabolism regulation and contributing to CFS fatigue.

Neuroinflammation, indicated by increased translocator protein binding in CFS patients' brains, may play a role in CFS symptoms.

However, the mechanisms linking HSV to CFS and the contribution of viral-induced neuroinflammation are still unclear.

Despite the evidence, understanding the complex interactions between HSV, immune responses, and other factors in CFS remains challenging.

In conclusion, HSV, particularly HSV-1 and HSV-2, may contribute to CFS development.

Further research is needed to unravel the mechanisms involved and identify potential therapeutic interventions.