Fibromyalgia

Question 1

Define fibromyalgia

Answer 1

Fibromyalgia syndrome describes widespread musculoskeletal pain and hyperalgesic tender spots with no single identifiable organic cause

Question 2

For how long must widespread musculoskeletal pain be present before diagnosing fibromyalgia?

Answer 2

3 months

Question 3

What does treatment involve?

Answer 3

Treatment involves a psycho-social MDT approach. It involves a graded exercise programme, CBT, developing a sleeping routine and drug therapy. Pharmacological treatments are not particularly successful but anti-depressants such as amitriptyline may improve sleep disturbance and pain. Simple analgesia such as paracetamol may also be prescribed.

Question 4

A diagnosis of fibromyalgia is confirmed based on positive hyperalgesic tender points. How many tender points must test positively?

Answer 4

11 out of 18