Psychiatric Comorbidity in Fibromyalgia

Abstract

Introduction:

Fibromyalgia is an entity that affects approximately 2% of the population, mainly women.

According to many studies, approximately half of women with fibromyalgia have a history of traumatic events during childhood or adulthood.

Affective disorders before and after fibromyalgia diagnosis are particularly frequent.

Materials and methods:

Comprehensive review of the scientific literature (Medline, Psychoinfo, Medex) on psychiatric comorbidity in women diagnosed with fibromyalgia published over the last three years.

Results:

40-60% of women diagnosed with fibromyalgia report sexual abuse during childhood or adulthood; A higher percentage of women (over 70%) report other kinds of physical or emotional trauma.

Fibromyalgia has been linked to mood disorders in 50-70% of patients. More precisely, it appears in combination with major depression in 20% of cases. To a lesser but still noteworthy extent, women with fibromyalgia are also diagnosed with dysthymia, anxiety disorders, phobias or panic disorders.

Conclusion:

Despite the common characteristics of these patients there is no such thing as a “fibromyalgic personality”.

As for comorbidity, mood disorders are highly prevalent, more specifically depression, even though no direct relationship has been established between them. Fibromyalgia symptoms are more acute in patients with comorbid psychiatric disorders.