Evaluation and differential diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Approach to diagnosis and management

Abstract

The combination of widespread musculoskeletal pain, high tender point count, and nonrestorative sleep are sufficient criteria for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. The condition is primary in the absence of underlying disease and is considered concomitant or secondary when closely associated with another organic disease. Despite more simplified diagnostic criteria, the work-up for fibromyalgia must always be directed toward excluding the underlying causes. In addition to general and rheumatic history and physical examination and selected laboratory studies, careful attention to defining any existing sleep and mood disturbances is important in designing a management program. Although 46 medical conditions have been associated with fibromyalgia, a practical differential diagnostic list included polymyalgia rheumatica, myofascial pain, connective tissue disease, endocrine myopathies, psychoneuroses, and other chronic fatigue syndromes.