Bedfordshire Chronic Fatigue Service

Disability Resource Centre

Poynters House

Poynters Road

Dunstable

LU5 4TP

Tel: (01582) 470918

Fax: (01582) 709057

Referral Guidelines

Consider referring to Bedfordshire CFS/ME Service if your client has a principal symptom of fatigue and it is:

·  Age 16 and above

·  Persistent or relapsing and present for 50% of the time

·  Of definite onset, not lifelong, of at least 4 months duration

·  Associated with other symptoms such as joint and muscle pain, reduced memory and concentration, disturbed and un-refreshing sleep

·  Having substantial impact on daily activities

·  Cannot be medically explained

and all reasonable efforts to have been made to exclude alternative diagnoses, both physical and mental (NICE 53).

Tests

The following should have been undertaken in the last six months and a copy of the results included with your referral. Please note - these blood tests are essential and if we do not receive the results with your referral we cannot offer your client an assessment appointment.

·  Urine tests: Urinalysis for Protein, Glucose and Blood

·  Blood tests for: FBC, U&E (inc Creatinine), LFT, TFT, ESR, CRP, RBG, Coeliac Screen /gluten sensitivity, Calcium, Creatine Kinase.

·  In younger adults: Additionally Ferritin

Other tests to consider, only if indicated for other reasons:

·  Ferritin, B12, Folate, (eg, in macrocytosis)

·  Serology testing (such as HIV, Hep B/C)

·  Acute viral infections : EBV / CMV / Infectious Mononucleosis / Toxoplasmosis

·  Imaging

·  If electrolyte imbalance, consider 8am Cortisol

Information Required

Useful information to include in your referral:

·  Main symptoms, information about onset and duration of illness

·  Sleeping Habits

·  Any current psychological / social stressors

·  Previous investigations, opinions and treatments for this problem

·  Any other medical or psychological problems which are relevant

·  Copies of any past reports associated with the above

·  Details of current medication

If your patient already has a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, please include with your referral, a copy of the assessment and confirmation of the diagnosis. Referrals should be sent to the above address. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us.