Best practice & research. Clinical rheumatology
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Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol · Jun 2007
ReviewPathophysiological mechanisms in chronic musculoskeletal pain (fibromyalgia): the role of central and peripheral sensitization and pain disinhibition.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain has biological, psychological and social components. This review deals with the biological factors, with emphasis on the fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). ⋯ Further research is necessary in order to determine which methods are best for diagnosis of the pain hypersensitivity in clinical practice. FMS may be the far end of a continuum that starts with chronic localized/regional musculoskeletal pain and ends with widespread chronic disabling pain.
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Chronic pain states are common in the general population. Genetic factors can explain a significant amount of the variability in the perception of pain. Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and related conditions are syndromes characterized by generalized pain sensitivity as well as a constellation of other symptoms. ⋯ Environmental factors may trigger the development of these disorders in genetically predisposed individuals. Future large well-designed studies are needed to further clarify the role of genetic factors in FMS and related conditions. The knowledge of these gene polymorphisms may help with better subgrouping of FMS patients and in designing a more specific pharmacologic treatment approach.