Fibromyalgia and Depression. (19th November 2011)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gracely, Richard H.; Ceko, Marta; Bushnell, M. Catherine
• Other Names: Schweinhardt Petra Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Pain research and treatment. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2011-11-19
• Subjects: Pain -- Periodicals; Pain -- Research -- Periodicals; Pain -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Pain -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.047205
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/486590
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-1542

Abstract

Abstract : Fibromyalgia and depression might represent two manifestations of affective spectrum disorder. They share similar pathophysiology and are largely targeted by the same drugs with dual action on serotoninergic and noradrenergic systems. Here, we review evidence for genetic and environmental factors that predispose, precipitate, and perpetuate fibromyalgia and depression and include laboratory findings on the role of depression in fibromyalgia. Further, we comment on several aspects of fibromyalgia which support the development of reactive depression, substantially more so than in other chronic pain syndromes. However, while sharing many features with depression, fibromyalgia is associated with somatic comorbidities and absolutely defined by fluctuating spontaneous widespread pain. Fibromyalgia may, therefore, be more appropriately grouped together with other functional pain disorders, while psychologically distressed subgroups grouped additionally or solely with affective spectrum disorders.