[Generalized tendomyopathy]

Generalised tendomyopathy (fibromyalgia) is characterised by diffuse localized pain involving the locomotory system, tenderness in the regions of the tendon insertions and muscles, loss of muscular power, sleep disorders and other vegetative functional and psychological disorders. In many cases, the diagnosis is delayed, often being made only after comprehensive superfluous diagnostic procedures, sometimes invasive, and inappropriate treatment. Age at disease onset is about 35 years, and initially involves, usually localized, the cervical or lumbar region of the spine. The condition is usually progressive over years. Pathogenesis is multifactorial; for generalization and persistence of the disease, psychosocial factors and civilization-related phenomena appear to play a decisive role. Treatment of generalized tendomyopathy is, for the most part, symptomatic and, overall, unsatisfactory. By way of medical treatment, only antidepressants seem to have a certain positive effect in some of the patients. Of importance is a good doctor--patient relationship and successful motivation of the patient to undergo active physiotherapeutic--in some cases also psychotherapeutic--treatment. With an eye to instituting more successful therapeutic measures and avoiding unnecessary diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and, last but not least, for socioeconomic reasons, early diagnosis is of great importance.