Evaluation of Muscle Function in Persian Gulf Veterans
Abstract
In an effort to investigate the etiology responsible for the ongoing chronic fatigue and muscle weakness in veterans with Persian Gulf illness (PG), we are performing a comprehensive evaluation of skeletal muscle in PG veterans with chronic fatigue (CF) and healthy control veterans. Preliminary evaluation of 33 veterans with CF and 19 healthy control veterans shows evidence that muscle function is impaired in veterans with PG illness. Specifically, a significant decrease was found in the mitochondrial ATP producing capacity in veterans with CF compared to healthy veterans, as well as an increased incidence of neuropathic variations. In addition, based on isometric and isokinetic testing in combination with MRI, a pattern of decreased force generating capacity per unit muscle cross-sectional area in veterans with CF emerges. Finally, while the relative fatiguability of skeletal muscle in the healthy veterans and veterans with CF is not different, a larger central component was observed in the veterans with CF. Further examination of skeletal muscle focusing on the differentiation between myopathic and neuropathic etiologies is being performed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA374007
Entities
People
- Krista Vandenborne
Organizations
- University of Pennsylvania