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Fibromyalgia syndrome: a somatoform disorder?
1Department of Internal Medicine I, Klinikum Saarbrücken, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technische Universität München, Germany.
European Journal of Pain (London, England)
|January 24, 2014
Summary
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) shares features with somatoform disorders but is not identical. A biopsychosocial model better explains FMS than a simple somatic versus mental disorder classification.
Area of Science:
- Medical classification
- Psychosomatic medicine
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) classification as a somatoform disorder is debated.
- Somatoform disorders involve unexplained somatic symptoms causing significant impairment.
- Psychosocial factors are recognized in the onset and maintenance of FMS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the classification of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) as a somatoform disorder.
- To analyze the overlap and distinctions between FMS and somatoform disorders.
- To determine the most appropriate model for understanding FMS.
Main Methods:
- Conducted literature searches in Medline and evidence-based guideline databases.
- Reviewed definitions and diagnostic criteria for somatoform disorders.
- Examined research on the etiological factors of FMS.
Main Results:
- Somatoform disorders require medically unexplained symptoms for at least 6 months.
- Psychosocial factors significantly influence FMS symptoms in most patients.
- A biopsychosocial model is more fitting for FMS than a somatic/mental dichotomy.
Conclusions:
- Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and somatoform disorders overlap in chronic widespread pain without specific somatic factors.
- FMS is not synonymous with the broader category of somatoform disorder.
- A biopsychosocial framework is recommended for understanding FMS.
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