[Psychosomatic aspects in the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia]

Abstract

The fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic pain condition of the musculoskeletal system defined by criteria of the American College of Rheumatology in 1990. Despite this definition, etiology and pathogenesis of FMS are still unknown, and consequently the therapy aims mainly at relieving symptoms. The favourite hypothesis is a multietiological concept including genetic, central nervous, muscular, and psychological issues. This article focuses on current psychological aspects as to etiology, process of chronification, and therapy of FMS. Regarding etiology there are diverging hypotheses rather than a general agreement, e.g. specific personality traits, traumatic events, psychodynamic explanations on the basis of a depressive conflict, or the subsumption under somatoform disorders. However, psychological aspects are evident to influence the course and treatment of FMS. In the chronification process behavioural aspects like avoidance behaviour with subsequent physical impairment, attitudes towards subjective theories of illness and therapeutic options, social factors like effects on work, interpersonal conditioning, and coping strategies play an important role. Therapeutic options of FMS comprise exercise, drugs, and psychotherapy. An integrated approach combining these options, a sustainable doctor-patient relationship, and a continuous support of the patient seem to be beneficial.