If one is sure they have cfs/me and one of the big potential biomarkers for cfs is poor nk function, then there is a good possibility that those diagnosed with cfs have crap nk function. Now if one just tests positive to past infections IGG antibodies to any of the herpes viruses no matter if titres are high or not, i think that there is a very good chance these viruses are causing problems as nk cells in healthy people are what helps keep these viruses latent. I just dont think viral testing is anywhere near accurate to say if they are active or not. I think the only way to tell if its an issue is to do a therapuetic trial of antivirals, probably famvir as its very safe and has a wide range of activity. I think one should give it 6 months to notice if its helping and probably then will need to be on them for a few years. Also i dont think its a cure but definately one can improve if these are an issue.
Those that can get all the testing done, viral titres, nk function and lymphocyte sub set testing, then go for it. But if one cant but has a viral onset and can get a script for antivirals or another way of getting treatment, then i reckon rolling the dice at trialling famvir has a good chance of helping one improve. Off the top of my head i reckon $600 for a 6 month trial of famvir, if it doesnt work at all then it cost u $600 to find out, but it has more of a chance of helping then many things we have all tried from the health food shops and im sure we have all spent more then $600 on things that havent helped.
Knowing what i know now and if i was living in the UK where testing/treatment is non existent, i would be finding away to get on some famvir. Its not a cure but if it can improve someone 2-3 points out of 10 then i think its worth it.
Really all many of us have for treatment is trial and error. Thats what options the medical systems have left many of us.
cheers!!!