Most women with CFS/FMS have low levels of the hormones testosterone and DHEA. But a small subset of women have elevated levels - and accompanying symptoms, like acne or darkening of facial hair. This condition is called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Therapy includes strictly avoiding sugar and taking metformin, an excellent and safe medication for diabetes. These therapies can dramatically help women with PCOS, and also help decrease their CFS/FMS symptoms.

Zinc is a talented mineral. It's critical in the production of the collagen that keeps skin healthy and speeds wound healing. It cools low-grade chronic inflammation, a problem in many chronic diseases. It boosts the strength of the immune system. Now researchers have found it may even help relieve depression.

Though research continues to show mixed findings, several more studies have shown positive for XMRV in CFS, including two in Europe (Spain and Norway). This suggests that the key is proper testing technology. This continues to help increase awareness and acceptance of CFS. Though current therapies can be very helpful, there is always room for improvement, and we continue to explore new therapies that are promising. The push now is to research different antiviral therapies and combinations in people with CFS.

Though the authors of the WPI cytokine study (see Immune Abnormalities in CFS — Two New Studies) infer that this confirms XMRV in CFS, I do not believe this is the case. It simply shows that in a CFS patient whose illness began with an acute viral infection, you will see a characteristic pattern in their immune lab tests. What I think the new WPI study does very well is to offer a promising new test for people whose CFS began with an infection. For those who are working with family members or insurance companies that still don't believe their illness is real, this testing may be very worthwhile when it becomes available.