Full title: Fibromyalgia: from pathophysiology to therapy.
Authors: Schmidt-Wilcke T, Clauw DJ.
Source: Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48106, USA.
Publication: Nat Rev Rheumatol.
Publication date: 19 July 2011
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.
PMID:21769128[PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
View the abstract in PubMed.