Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Disease in Fibromyalgia

Rheum Dis Clin North Am. 2018 Feb;44(1):131-142. doi: 10.1016/j.rdc.2017.09.009.

Abstract

Fibromyalgia (FM) has historically been associated with several diseases in gastroenterology and hepatology. The most substantiated evidence pertains to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The pathogeneses of FM and IBS remain unclear, but it is likely related to dysregulation within the brain-gut axis, resulting in a hyperalgesic state. IBS and FM share other similarities, including a female predominance, fatigue, insomnia, and susceptibility to psychiatric state. These common manifestations and pathogeneses serve as a foundation for overlapping, multidisciplinary treatment modalities.

Keywords: Abdominal pain; Central sensitization; Fibromyalgia; Hyperalgesia; Irritable bowel syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Central Nervous System Sensitization*
  • Disease Management
  • Fibromyalgia* / diagnosis
  • Fibromyalgia* / physiopathology
  • Fibromyalgia* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Hyperalgesia / physiopathology
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome* / physiopathology
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome* / therapy