Fibromyalgia: Time to Consider a New Taxonomy?

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to review whether the time has come to reconsider the use of the term “fibromy-algia” to describe this syndrome.

Findings: The term “fibromyalgia” suggests that fibrous and muscular abnormalities are causally involved in the etiology of the syndrome or that muscle pain is the most relevant clinical finding, however, current research suggests that there are no significant structural or functional differences between fibromyalgia and normal muscles. Persons with fibromyalgia have altered nociception, hyperalgesia, allodynia, and hypervigilance. The hyperalgesia is present not only over fibromyalgia tender points but also in nonpainful regions. Several studies have suggested that fibromyalgia is due to hypersensitivity of the central nervous system rather than pathologically painful muscles.

Conclusions: The etiology and symptoms of fibromyalgia are not due to structural or functional changes in muscle or fibrous tissues. Hence, the term “fibromyalgia” does not describe the etiology of the syndrome adequately. The International MYOPAIN Society could be a conduit for a change in taxonomy from “fibromyalgia” to for example, “complex widespread pain syndrome,” or other name that adequately reflects the etiology and complexity of the syndrome that is now known as “fibromyalgia.”

KEYWORDS:

• Fibromyalgia
• taxonomy
• hypersensitivity
• allodynia
• etiology