Fibromyalgia: Winkelmann A

Sommer C, Häuser W, Gerhold K, Joraschky P, Petzke F, Tölle T, Uçeyler N, Winkelmann A, Thieme K. · Neurologische Klinik, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg. · Schmerz. · Pubmed #18470541 No free full text.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To write a systematic review on the etiology and pathophysiology of the fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and of chronic widespread pain (CWP). METHODS: An interdisciplinary level-3 guideline (i.e. systematic literature search and assessment, logic analysis, formal consensus procedure) for the diagnosis and therapy of FMS was created in cooperation with 10 medical and psychological societies and 2 patient self-help organizations. A literature search was performed covering all available review articles on the etiology and pathophysiology of FMS and CWP using the Cochrane Collaboration Reviews (1993-12/2006), Medline (1980-2006), PsychInfo (1966-12/2006), and Scopus (1980-12/2006). For the assignment of evidence classes the system of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine was applied. Consensus was achieved by a multi-step nominal group procedure. RESULTS: FMS aggregates in families (evidence level 2c). Physical and psychological stress at the workplace are risk factors for the development of CWP and FMS. Affective disorders are risk factors for the development and maintenance of FMS. Operant learning mechanisms and sensitization are risk factors for the chronification of FMS (evidence levels 2b). Several factors are associated with the pathophysiology of FMS, but the causal relationship is unclear. This includes alterations of central pain pathways, hyporeactivity of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, increased systemic pro-inflammatory and reduced anti-inflammatory cytokine profiles and disturbances in the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems. CONCLUSIONS: FMS is the common final product of various etiological factors and pathophysiological mechanisms.

Langhorst J, Häuser W, Irnich D, Speeck N, Felde E, Winkelmann A, Lucius H, Michalsen A, Musial F. · Klinik für Innere Medizin V, Naturheilkunde und Integrative Medizin, Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Am Deimelsberg 34a, 45276 Essen. · Schmerz. · Pubmed #18463899 No free full text.

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Interdisciplinary S3 level guidelines were devised in cooperation with 8 medical, 2 psychological and 2 patient support groups. Results were elaborated in a multilevel group process. METHODS: On the bases of the "Cochrane Library" (1993-2006), "Medline" (1980-2006), "PsychInfo" (2006) and "Scopus" (2006) controlled studies and meta-analyses of controlled studies were analyzed. RESULTS: Only few controlled studies were found supporting in part the effectiveness of CAM therapies in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome. Due to the lack of information on long term efficacy and cost-effectiveness, only limited recommendations for CAM therapies can be given. CONCLUSION: Within a multicomponent therapy setting, selective CAM therapies (acupuncture, vegetarian diet, homeopathy, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, music-oriented and body-oriented therapies) can be recommended for a limited period of time.

Hieblinger R, Coenen M, Stucki G, Winkelmann A, Cieza A. · Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ludwig-Maximilian University Munich, Munich 80336, Germany. · Arthritis Res Ther. · Pubmed #19442275 links to  free full text

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Functioning is recognized as an important study outcome in chronic widespread pain (CWP). The Comprehensive ICF Core Set for CWP is an application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) with the purpose of representing the typical spectrum of functioning of patients with CWP. The objective of the study was to add evidence to the validation of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for CWP from the patient perspective. The specific aims were to explore the aspects of functioning and health important to patients with fibromyalgia, and to examine to what extent these aspects are represented by the current version of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for CWP. METHODS: The sampling of patients followed the maximum variation strategy. Sample size was determined by saturation. The focus groups were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. The meaning condensation procedure was used for qualitative data analysis. After qualitative data analysis, the identified concepts were linked to ICF categories. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients participated in six focus groups. Fifty-four ICF categories out of 67 categories of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for CWP were reported by the patients. Forty-eight additional categories that are not covered in the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for CWP were raised. CONCLUSIONS: Most ICF categories of the existing version of the Comprehensive ICF Core Set for CWP could be confirmed from the patient perspective. However, several categories not included in the Core Set emerged and should be considered for inclusion.

Pedrosa Gil F, Weigl M, Wessels T, Irnich D, Baumüller E, Winkelmann A. · Psychosomatic Outpatient Clinic, Department of Internal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, Munich, Germany. · Psychosomatics. · Pubmed #18354064 links to  free full text

Abstract: In a cross-sectional study, the authors investigated 40 female patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FS) for the degree of alexithymia and parental bonding style. Alexithymia was assessed by the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-26; parental style by the FDEB (a German version of the Measure of Parental Style). In 15% of patients with FS, clinically significant alexithymia was found. Also, there was a positive association between the alexithymia scores (TAS total score) and "maternal abuse" and higher values in "paternal indifference," which predicted higher scores on "Difficulties identifying feelings" (TAS). The results of this study suggest that parental styles are associated with higher alexithymia scores.