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Pain Processing and Vegetative Dysfunction in Fibromyalgia: A Study by Sympathetic Skin Response and Laser Evoked
Marina de Tommaso1, Katia Ricci1, Giuseppe Libro1
1Neurophysiopathology of Pain Laboratory, Basic Medical Science, Neuroscience and Sensory System Department, Bari Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy.
Pain Research and Treatment
|November 3, 2017
Summary
Fibromyalgia patients show altered nerve responses, including delayed and absent laser evoked potentials (LEPs) and sympathetic skin response (SSR). These findings correlate with pain severity and disability, suggesting nervous system dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Medicine
- Pain Research
Background:
- Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by central and peripheral pain processing dysfunction.
- Understanding the neurophysiological underpinnings of FM is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between laser evoked potentials (LEPs), sympathetic skin response (SSR), and clinical features in fibromyalgia patients.
- To elucidate the involvement of peripheral and central nervous system pathways in FM.
Main Methods:
- Fifty FM patients and 30 controls underwent LEPs and SSR assessments.
- Clinical evaluation included fibromyalgia impact (FIQ), symptom severity (WPI), anxiety (SAS), depression (SDS), and neuropathic pain (DN4) scores.
Main Results:
- FM patients exhibited increased LEP P2 latency and amplitude, and prolonged SSR latency.
- Reduced LEPs habituation correlated with higher pain severity scores.
- Absent SSR or LEP responses were observed in 32% of FM patients with elevated DN4 and FIQ scores.
Conclusions:
- LEPs and SSR are valuable tools for assessing peripheral and central nervous system involvement in fibromyalgia.
- These neurophysiological markers may help in understanding the complex pain mechanisms in FM.
