Immune system

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is a complex multi-systemic disorder which causes neurological impairments, energy metabolism/ion transport dysfunction, and immune, gastro-intestinal and/or genito-urinary symptoms.

The immune system is primarily formed by the innate immune system which we are born with, and the adaptive immune system which learns how to fight pathogens (for example from vaccines, or infections we contract).

Immune system symptoms
Symptoms related to M.E. include:
 * Flu-like symptoms (sore throat, sinus inflammation, lymph node changes) that typically begin or worsens with exertion, for instance as part of Post-Exertional Malaise
 * Increased risk of contacting viruses, which last for a prolonged time
 * Gastro-intestinal problems, which may include nausea, abdominal bloating, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome
 * Needing to urinate either more urgently or more frequently, sometimes at night (nocturia)
 * New sensitivities to smells, chemicals, or medication; food or alcohol intolerances

Innate immune system
Innate immune system

Barriers
Mucosal immune system

Adaptive immune system
Adaptive immune system

Autoimmunity
ME/CFS patients have anti-cholinergic muscarinic, Β-adrenergic, phosphatidylinositol and serotonin antibodies when compared to healthy controls.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
There is evidence of immune dysregulation in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

Reduced natural killer cell function.

Elevated regulatory T cells

Learn more

 * Crash Course - The Immune System Part 1 (Adaptive immune system)
 * Crash Course - The Immune System Part 2 (humoral immunity & B cells)
 * Crash Course - The Immune System Part 3 (cell-mediated immunity & T cells)