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A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers
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A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers

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Pediatric fibromyalgia

Dan Buskila1

  • 1Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine H, Soroka Medical Center, Ben Gurion University, Beer Sheva, Israel. dbuskila@bgu.ac.il

Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of North America
|August 4, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition affecting children and adolescents, characterized by widespread pain and fatigue. This review covers its causes, symptoms, and treatment in young people.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Pain Medicine
  • Clinical Neurology

Background:

  • Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
  • Central nervous system sensitization is a key pathophysiological mechanism.
  • While common in adults, pediatric fibromyalgia presents unique challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of pediatric fibromyalgia.
  • To discuss the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and etiology of fibromyalgia in children and adolescents.
  • To outline current management strategies and expected outcomes for pediatric fibromyalgia.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological studies, clinical case series, and treatment trials.
  • Synthesis of data on diagnostic criteria, symptom complexes, and risk factors.
  • Analysis of treatment modalities and prognostic indicators.

Main Results:

  • Pediatric fibromyalgia shares core features with adult fibromyalgia but may have distinct epidemiological patterns.
  • Associated symptoms like fatigue, sleep issues, and cognitive difficulties are prominent.
  • Multimodal treatment approaches are generally recommended.

Conclusions:

  • Fibromyalgia can affect children and adolescents, impacting their quality of life.
  • Early diagnosis and comprehensive management are crucial for optimal outcomes.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand pediatric fibromyalgia's long-term trajectory.

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