[Panalgesia and the fibromyalgia concept]

Fibromyalgia is a chronic soft tissue pain syndrome characterized by the presence of widespread musculosceletal aching, tender points at characteristic sites, fatigue and poor sleep. Associated disorders are restless leg syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bladder syndrome, cognitive dysfunction, cold intolerance, multiple sensitivities and dizziness. Despite the superficial appearance of normality, many fibromyalgia patients have difficulties with remaining competitive in the work force. Impressive resurgence of research had been done about fibromyalgia in a better understanding in the neurobiology of chronic pain. The results demonstrate that sensory disorders processing at a central level are in part involved in fibromyalgia. These findings also influence the management of the disease with the tendency to a multidisciplinary therapeutical concept.