Fibromyalgia: from Pathophysiology to Therapy

Overview

Journal Nat Rev Rheumatol

Specialty Rheumatology

Date 2011 Jul 20

PMID 21769128

Citations 96

Authors

Tobias Schmidt-Wilcke

Daniel J Clauw

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Individuals with fibromyalgia generally experience chronic widespread pain, which can be accompanied by further symptoms including fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive dysfunction, anxiety and depressive episodes. As the recognition and diagnosis of fibromyalgia has improved, the availability of therapeutic options for patients has increased. Furthermore, research into the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to the chronic pain and concomitant symptoms experienced by patients with fibromyalgia has advanced our understanding of this debilitating disorder. In this Review, we aim to provide an overview of existing pathophysiological concepts. The roles of biological and psychological stress, genetic factors, and pain and sensory processing in the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia and related conditions are discussed. In addition, pharmacological treatments, including monoamine modulators, calcium channel modulators and γ-aminobutyric acid modulators, as well as nonpharmacological treatment options are considered.

Citing Articles

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Chronic pain management in fibromyalgia: the INTEGRO (INTEGRated Psychotherapeutic InterventiOn) protocol and its application on two case studies.

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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy vs. pharmacological intervention in adults with fibromyalgia related to childhood sexual abuse: prospective, randomized clinical trial.

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