| Abstract [eng] |
Background. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by generalized pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances and functional symptoms. The pathogenesis of fibromyalgia is still debated upon and includes a variety of different mechanisms, highlighting central sensitization. Although treatment is available, symptom management is challenging and the condition remains widely underdiagnosed as most symptoms are subjective. Aim. To conduct a literature review on fibromyalgia, focusing on its pathogenesis, symptoms, diagnostics, and treatment options. Methods. A literature review was conducted on the PubMed database using the keywords: “fibromyalgia”, “generalized pain syndrome”, “central sensitization”. Articles published in the last 10 years in English were selected for the analysis. Results. The pathogenesis of fibromyalgia involves a variety of mechanisms, however, the central sensitization phenomenon is the most emphasized. The symptoms and their intensity may vary patient to patient, with widespread musculosceletal pain being one of the main complaints, but cognitive dysfunction and functional symptoms are common. Diagnosing fibromyalgia remains difficult, as the diagnosis is based on the patients‘ subjective descriptions of pain. The treatment is multidisciplinary and involves physical therapy, cognitive behavioural psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Conclusions.Fibromyalgia is a complex disease affecting the patient‘s quality of life. It is important not to dismiss a patient‘s complaints of pain and the diagnosis of fibromyalgia as in some cases the symptoms may be severe and debilitating. Individualized treatment and collaboration among different healthcare professionals (physiotherapists, psychiatrists and psychotherapists, rheumatologists) are the key to improving the life quality of such patients. |
