Fibromyalgia: Terra Incognita

Abstract

Objective: Biochemical abnormalities have been observed in fibromyalgia syndrome [FMS] patients' blood, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, and/or muscles. Such irregularities include decreased serotonin, increased substance P and nerve growth factor, cytokines abnormalities, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction, and decreased growth hormone. Abnormalities of energy metabolism and antioxidant status have also been observed. Correlations with clinical symptoms have been demonstrated, and all these different parameters can be linked to FMS pathophysiology as summarized by a complex figure.

Conclusion: The interactivity of biochemicals abnormalities observed in FMS has been summarized in a complex matrix. It is hoped that this diagrammatic insight will lead to novel or more appropriate treatments.

KEYWORDS:

• Fibromyalgia syndrome
• pathogenesis
• neuropeptides
• serotonin
• cytokines