Fibrositis, fibromyalgia, and musculoskeletal disease: the current status of the fibrositis syndrome

Abstract

Fibrositis (fibromyalgia) is a common disorder, but is often not considered or diagnosed by clinicians. It is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and aching, disturbed sleep, fatigue, morning stiffness, and local tenderness. The presence of multiple (seven or more) tender points and widespread pain or aching are necessary and sufficient conditions for diagnosis. Fibrositis occurs in a "primary" form, but most commonly in association with other rheumatic diseases where it is a concomitant condition. The designation "myofascial pain syndrome" has replaced older concepts of localized fibrositis, and is considered a separate entity.