Description

Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is a complex, multisystem condition caused by a persistent and dysregulated immune response to environmental or biological triggers. The syndrome often involves chronic inflammation across multiple organ systems, making diagnosis and management particularly challenging.

Common triggers for CIRS include:

  • Biotoxins such as mold (mycotoxins), dinoflagellates, or cyanobacteria
  • Microbial infections, including Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses
  • Environmental toxins, including heavy metals and pesticides
  • Genetic susceptibility related to HLA gene variations

Symptoms may vary widely and may include:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Brain fog or memory issues
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Headaches
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., bloating, diarrhea)
  • Sleep irregularities
  • Mood disorders or anxiety
  • Autoimmune manifestations

Included Biomarkers and Tests:

Alpha-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH)

  • Plays a role in regulating immune function, inflammation, and neuroimmune pathways.
  • Low levels are commonly seen in CIRS and are associated with fatigue, sleep disturbances, and chronic pain.

Complement C3 and C4

  • Components of the immune complement system; abnormalities can indicate immune activation or dysregulation often seen in CIRS.

Matrix Metallopeptidase 9 (MMP-9)

  • A marker of inflammatory tissue damage and blood-brain barrier permeability.
  • Elevated levels are associated with neuroinflammation and vascular injury.

Leptin

  • A hormone involved in metabolism and immune modulation.
  • Elevated leptin may reflect leptin resistance and chronic inflammation often seen in CIRS and metabolic syndrome.

Osmolality (Serum)

  • Measures the body’s fluid balance and solute concentration.
  • Abnormal values may indicate dehydration or hormone imbalance affecting water regulation (e.g., low ADH in CIRS).

Transforming Growth Factor Beta-1 (TGF-β1)

  • A cytokine involved in immune regulation and tissue remodeling.
  • Elevated levels are common in CIRS and may be associated with fibrosis, lung issues, and immune imbalance.

Vasopressin (Arginine Vasopressin / ADH)

  • Regulates water retention and blood pressure.
  • Low levels, often seen in CIRS, can contribute to fluid imbalance, frequent urination, and low blood pressure.

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)

  • A protein that promotes blood vessel growth and repair.
  • Abnormal levels may contribute to oxygenation issues, fatigue, and vascular inflammation.

Test Preparation:

  • Fasting: Recommended (at least 8 hours)
  • Sample Type: Blood (venipuncture)

Recommended For Individuals With:

  • Known or suspected mold or biotoxin exposure
  • Chronic fatigue or unexplained inflammatory symptoms
  • Previous diagnosis or suspicion of Lyme disease or tick-borne illness
  • Symptoms affecting multiple systems with no clear diagnosis
  • A history of environmental toxin exposure

Clinical Use Cases:

  • Identifying immune and inflammatory dysregulation associated with CIRS
  • Differentiating CIRS from similar conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune disease
  • Monitoring biomarker trends during treatment or detox protocols
  • Supporting referrals to functional or environmental medicine specialists