The biologic basis of fatigue

In spite of many remarkable advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of cancer biology, very little attention has been directed toward mechanis ms underlying cancer-induced symptoms. Although fatigue is a widely prevale nt complication of cancer, there is a paucity of both basic and clinical re search in this area. This article details our current knowledge of mechanis ms causing cancer-related fatigue and briefly discusses currently available therapeutic options. A framework for addressing gaps in our knowledge and recommendations for future research directions are proposed. (C) 2001 Ameri can Cancer Society.