[Chronic fatigue syndrome].

The major and minor diagnostic criteria of the chronic fatigue syndrome are described. The stages of the differential diagnosis, the diagnostic strategies and the controversies, while insisting on certain sleeping disorders are discussed. The cause of the syndrome may be a viral infection, and an anxious-depressive state may increase somatic complaints. Patients with chronic fatigue syndrome did not demonstrate a specific response to therapy. Spontaneous remission after a few years is a typical feature of this syndrome.