fibromyalgia

Question 1

define fibromyalgia

Answer 1

A chronic condition which is characterised by widespread body pain, fatigue, mood difficulties, and sleep disturbances.

Question 2

cause of fibromyalgia

Answer 2

unknown

Research suggests that it is a part of a CNS-driven pain amplification syndrome, indicating a dysregulation of pain perception.

Question 3

does fibromyalgia have genetic predisposition

Answer 3

yes - this suggests it is a multifactorial diseas

Question 4

who does fibromyalgia affect

Answer 4

Usually affects females that are older and is linked with stress

Question 5

signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia

Answer 5

• Widespread body pain
• Fatigue
• Cognitive disturbances
• Mood disorders (depression/anxiety)
• Sleep disturbances

Question 6

how to diagnose fibromyalgia

Answer 6

diagnosis is clinical
can refer to the American College of Rheumatology Classification Criteria

Question 7

describe the American College of Rheumatology Classification Criteria

Answer 7

this lists factors such as widespread pain duration and points of tenderness on the body to make a diagnosis. (11+/18 regions palpated must be in pain on the body for a diagnosis)

Question 8

how to make a clinical diagnosis of fibromyalgia

Answer 8

• no serological markers
• no inflammatory markers
• pain in 11+ out of 18 regions palpated

Question 9

does fibromyalgia have a cure

Answer 9

no

Question 10

how to manage fibromyalgia symptoms

Answer 10

1. Medications(oral prednisolone, antidepressants and painkillers)
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
3. Lifestyle modifications (regular exercise, stress management, and relaxation techniques)

Question 11

what pain pathway is affected in fibromyalgia

Answer 11

non-nociceptive pathway

Question 12

differential diagnosis for fibromyalgia

Answer 12

polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR)