The biologic basis of fatigue

Abstract
In spite of many remarkable advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of cancer biology, very little attention has been directed toward mechanisms underlying cancer-induced symptoms. Although fatigue is a widely prevalent complication of cancer, there is a paucity of both basic and clinical research in this area. This article details our current knowledge of mechanisms 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. Cancer 2001;92:1678–83. © 2001 American Cancer Society.