Cognitive dysfunction, depression and serum level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

AIM OF THE WORK: To evaluate serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its relation with cognitive dysfunction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study was carried out on 60 RA patients; 30 were active (group A) and 30 were non active (group B); and 30 controls (group C). RA disease activity was assessed via DAS28 tool, cognitive function via The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and depression via the PHQ depression scale. Serum BDNF levels were measured. RESULTS: The mean age in group A was 37.8 (±9.37) years with 83.3% females, in group B was 39.97 (±8.04) years with 86.7% females and in group C was 33.17 (±3.6) years with 93.3% females. Abnormal cognitive functions test was detected in 66.7% of group A, 66.7% of group B, and in 23.3% of group C. There was a statistically significant difference in BDNF serum level between both groups of patients (1.58±0.9ng/ml for group A, 1.81±1.17ng/ml for group B) compared with the control group (3.01±1.25ng/ml, p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between BDNF and both disease duration and cognitive function, also no statistically significant difference regarding cognitive function, depression, and BNDF levels in patients with and without fibromyalgia. At a cut-off value of <2ng/ml, BDNF detected RA patients with cognitive dysfunction with a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 96.67%. CONCLUSION: BDNF can be a potential biomarker of cognitive dysfunction in RA patients.

Cognitive dysfunction, depression and serum level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis / Disfunción cognitiva, depresión y nivel sérico del factor neurotrófico derivado del cerebro (BDNF) en pacientes egipcios con artritis reumatoide

Aim of the work: To evaluate serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in Egyptian patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its relation with cognitive dysfunction. Patients and methods: The study was carried out on 60 RA patients; 30 were active (group A) and 30 were non active (group B); and 30 controls (group C). RA disease activity was assessed via DAS28 tool, cognitive function via The Montreal Cognitive Assessment and depression via the PHQ depression scale. Serum BDNF levels were measured. Results: The mean age in group A was 37.8 (±9.37) years with 83.3% females, in group B was 39.97 (±8.04) years with 86.7% females and in group C was 33.17 (±3.6) years with 93.3% females. Abnormal cognitive functions test was detected in 66.7% of group A, 66.7% of group B, and in 23.3% of group C. There was a statistically significant difference in BDNF serum level between both groups of patients (1.58±0.9ng/ml for group A, 1.81±1.17ng/ml for group B) compared with the control group (3.01±1.25ng/ml, p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between BDNF and both disease duration and cognitive function, also no statistically significant difference regarding cognitive function, depression, and BNDF levels in patients with and without fibromyalgia. At a cut-off value of <2ng/ml, BDNF detected RA patients with cognitive dysfunction with a sensitivity of 80%, specificity of 96.67%. Conclusion: BDNF can be a potential biomarker of cognitive dysfunction in RA patients.(AU)

Objetivo: Evaluar el factor neurotrófico derivado del cerebro (BDNF) en suero en pacientes egipcios con artritis reumatoide (AR) y su relación con la disfunción cognitiva. Pacientes y métodos: El estudio se realizó en 60 pacientes con AR; 30 eran activos (grupo A) y 30 no activos (grupo B); y 30 controles (grupo C). La actividad de la enfermedad de AR se evaluó a través de la herramienta DAS28, la función cognitiva a través de la Evaluación Cognitiva de Montreal y la depresión a través de la escala de depresión PHQ. Se midieron los niveles de BDNF en suero. Resultados: La edad media en el grupo A fue de 37,8 (±9,37) años con 83,3% de mujeres, en el grupo B de 39,97 (±8,04) años con 86,7% de mujeres y en el grupo C de 33,17 (±3,6) años con 93,3% de mujeres. La prueba de funciones cognitivas anormales se detectó en 66,7% del grupo A, 66,7% del grupo B y 23,3% del grupo C. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el nivel sérico de BDNF entre ambos grupos de pacientes (1,58±0,9ng/mL para grupo A, 1,81±1,17ng/mL para el grupo B) en comparación con el grupo control (3,01±1,25ng/mL, p<0,001). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre el BDNF y la duración de la enfermedad y la función cognitiva, tampoco hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas con respecto a la función cognitiva, la depresión y los niveles de BDNF en pacientes con y sin fibromialgia. A un valor de corte de <2ng/mL, BDNF detectó pacientes con AR con disfunción cognitiva con una sensibilidad de 80% y una especificidad de 96,67%. Conclusión: BDNF puede ser un biomarcador potencial de disfunción cognitiva en pacientes con AR.(AU)

Definición de la fibromialgia / Definition of fibromyalgia

El artículo define brevemente la fibromialgia dentro de un contexto más amplio incluyendo las raíces históricas del concepto y su posible etiología, así como su interpretación dentro de los modelos biopsicosociales más actuales, con implicaciones terapéuticas de alto interés.(AU)

Percepción del profesional sanitario sobre el paciente con síndrome de sensibilidad central-fibromialgia / Health personnel perception about central sensitivity syndrome-fibromyalgia patients

Antecedentes y objetivos: La fibromialgia se caracteriza por dolor musculoesquelético y astenia de curso crónico. Los pacientes con fibromialgia suelen ser todo un desafío para los sanitarios en su conjunto. Los estudios existentes suelen estar limitados a la opinión de médicos reumatólogos o de familia. Con este estudio buscamos conocer cuáles son las actuaciones, las percepciones y los conocimientos del conjunto de los profesionales sanitarios al atender pacientes con esta enfermedad. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, mediante una encuesta autoadministrada y anónima, distribuida principalmente en plantas hospitalarias y centros de atención primaria. Se realizó análisis estadístico de las variables recogidas (p˂0,05). Resultados: Se recogieron 200 encuestas, la mayoría de médicos (63,5%; n=127) o de enfermeros (25,5%; n=51). El 71% de los médicos refirieron utilizar la escala analgésica de la OMS. El 53% (n=59) utilizan AINE o paracetamol. Los antidepresivos son el tercer fármaco de elección. La mayoría cree que los especialistas de referencia deben ser los reumatólogos o los médicos de atención primaria, y un porcentaje similar, que el manejo debe ser multidisciplinar. El 52% se sienten desanimados o molestos al abordar a estos pacientes. Los médicos tienen mayores connotaciones negativas y creen que la atención que el paciente recibe está mayormente influenciada por el diagnóstico de fibromialgia, frente a los enfermeros y otros profesionales. Conclusiones: Nuestro estudio demuestra que la falta de conocimiento y de herramientas terapéuticas genera en gran medida frustración y malestar en el personal sanitario. Es importante desarrollar nuevos enfoques sobre esta entidad.(AU)

Background and objectives: Fibromyalgia is characterized by musculoskeletal pain and asthenia of chronic course. Fibromyalgia patients are often a challenge for the health care community as a whole. Existing studies are often limited to the opinion of rheumatologists or family physicians. With this study we seek to know what are the actions, perceptions and knowledge of health professionals as a whole when caring for patients with this disease. Materials and methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study, by means of a self-administered and anonymous survey. Distributed mainly in hospital wards and primary care centers. Statistical analysis of the variables collected was performed (P˂.05). Results: Two hundred surveys were collected, most of them physicians (63.5%; n=127) or nurses (25.5%; n=51). 71% of physicians reported using the WHO analgesic scale. 53% (n=59) use NSAIDs or paracetamol. Antidepressants are the third drug of choice. Most believe that the referral specialists should be rheumatologists or primary care physicians, a similar percentage, that management should be multidisciplinary. Fifty two percent feel discouraged or annoyed when dealing with these patients. Physicians have more negative connotations and believe that the care that the patient receives is mostly influenced by the diagnosis of fibromyalgia, compared to nurses and other professionals. Conclusions: Our study shows that the lack of knowledge and therapeutic tools generates, to a large extent, frustration and discomfort in health personnel. It is important to develop new approaches to this entity.(AU)

Patient-journey of fibromyalgia patients: A scoping review / Patient-journey del paciente con fibromialgia: una revisión de alcance

Background: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic disease characterized by widespread pain. Although much is known about this disease, research has focused on diagnosis and treatment, leaving aside factors related to patient's experience and the relationship with healthcare system. Objectives: The aim was to analyze the available evidence on the experience of FM patients from the first symptoms to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Methods: A scoping review was carried out. Medline and the Cochrane Library were searched for original studies or reviews dealing with FM and focusing on “patient journey”. Results were organized using a deductive classification of themes. Results: Fifty-four articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Five themes were identified: the patient journey, the challenge for the health systems, a complex doctor–patient relationship, the importance of the diagnosis, and the difficulty of standardizing the treatment. Conclusions: This scoping review confirms the negative impact of FM on the patient, their social environment, and health systems. It is necessary to minimize the difficulties encountered throughout the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with FM.(AU)

Antecedentes: La fibromialgia (FM) es una enfermedad crónica caracterizada por dolor generalizado. Aunque se sabe mucho de esta enfermedad, la investigación se ha centrado en el diagnóstico y el tratamiento, sin valorar la experiencia del paciente y la relación con el sistema. Objetivos: El objetivo fue analizar la evidencia sobre la experiencia de los pacientes con FM desde el inicio de los síntomas hasta el diagnóstico, el tratamiento y el seguimiento. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión de alcance. Se buscaron en Medline y en Cochrane Library estudios o revisiones sobre la FM y “patient journey”. Los resultados se clasificaron mediante deductiva de temas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 54 artículos en la síntesis cualitativa. Se identificaron cinco temas: el viaje del paciente, el reto para los sistemas sanitarios, la compleja relación médico-paciente, la importancia del diagnóstico, y la dificultad de estandarizar el tratamiento. Conclusiones: Esta revisión confirma el impacto negativo de la FM en pacientes, su entorno social y sistemas sanitarios. Es necesario minimizar las dificultades durante el diagnóstico y seguimiento de pacientes con FM.(AU)

Eficacia de la práctica de yoga y del ejercicio aeróbico frente al standard of care en pacientes con fibromialgia. Estudio FIB-YOGA-EA-SOC / Efficacy of Yoga Practice and Aerobic Exercise compared to Standard of Care in Patients with Fibromyalgia. FIB-YOGA-EA-SOC Study

Objetivo: evaluar los efectos de una intervención integral de yoga y de ejercicio aeróbico (EA) frente al ejercicio de la práctica habitual o standard of care (SOC) sobre el impacto general y la gravedad de la fibromialgia (FM). Métodos: ensayo clínico aleatorizado de tres brazos en mujeres diagnosticadas de FM (grupos: YOGA, serie de asanas de Satyananda Saraswasi (n= 31); EA, 7.000 pasos diarios (n= 31); SOC (n= 61)). Variables e instrumentos: datos antropométricos, sociodemográficos y clínicos; Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ); dolor (Widespread pain Index -WPI-); gravedad de los síntomas (Symptom Severity Score -SSS-); calidad de vida (índice combinado de afectación en pacientes con FM -ICAF-); capacidad funcional (Fibromyalgia Health Assessment Questionnaire -FHAQ-). Para la comparación entre los grupos se utilizó la prueba t de Student . Resultados: se estudiaron 96 mujeres con FM. Con respecto al grupo SOC, se han observado mejorías estadísticamente significativas (p< 0,05), y a nivel clínico con las intervenciones YOGA y EA en el índice de dolor (WPI), impacto general y gravedad de la FM (FIQ), gravedad de los síntomas (SSS) y calidad de vida (ICAF). Sin embargo, no se observó una mejoría en la capacidad funcional (FHAQ). Comparando ambas intervenciones, YOGA versus EA, se vieron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en los síntomas específicos (SSS) y la calidad de vida (ICAF). Conclusiones: los profesionales de la salud se enfrentan a numerosos desafíos en el tratamiento de estos pacientes. Los hallazgos de este ensayo son prometedores respecto a los efectos beneficiosos del YOGA y EA para disminuir el dolor, el impacto general y gravedad, y gravedad de los síntomas, así como en mejorar la calidad de vida en pacientes con FM.(AU)

Objective: to assess the effects of a comprehensive yoga and aerobic exercise (AE) intervention versus standard of care (SOC) exercise on the overall impact and severity of fibromyalgia (FM). Methods: three-arm randomised clinical trial in women diagnosed with FM (groups: YOGA, Satyananda Saraswasi asana series (n=31); AE, 7,000 steps per day (n= 31); SOC (n= 61)). Variables and instruments: anthropometric, sociodemographic and clinical data; Fibromyalgia Health Assessment Questionnaire (FIQ); pain (Widespread pain Index (WPI)); symptom severity (Symptom Severity Score (SSS); quality of life (Combined Index of Severity of Fibromyalgia (CISF)); functional capacity (Fibromyalgia Health Assessment Questionnaire (FHAQ)). For comparison between groups, Student's t-test was used. Results: ininety-six women with FM were studied. With respect to the SOC group, statistically significant (p<0.05), and clinically significant improvements were observed with the YOGA and AE interventions in pain index (WPI), overall impact and severity of FM (FIQ), symptom severity (SSS) and quality of life (CISF). However, no improvement in functional capacity (FHAQ) was observed. Comparing both interventions, yoga versus AE, statistically significant differences were seen in specific symptoms (SSS) and quality of life (CISF). Conclusions: healthcare professionals face numerous challenges in the management of these patients. The findings of this trial are promising regarding the beneficial effects of YOGA and AE in decreasing pain, global impact and severity, and symptom severity, as well as improving quality of life in patients with FM.(AU)

Patient-journey of fibromyalgia patients: A scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic disease characterized by widespread pain. Although much is known about this disease, research has focused on diagnosis and treatment, leaving aside factors related to patient's experience and the relationship with healthcare system. OBJECTIVES: The aim was to analyze the available evidence on the experience of FM patients from the first symptoms to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. METHODS: A scoping review was carried out. Medline and the Cochrane Library were searched for original studies or reviews dealing with FM and focusing on "patient journey". Results were organized using a deductive classification of themes. RESULTS: Fifty-four articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Five themes were identified: the patient journey, the challenge for the health systems, a complex doctor-patient relationship, the importance of the diagnosis, and the difficulty of standardizing the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review confirms the negative impact of FM on the patient, their social environment, and health systems. It is necessary to minimize the difficulties encountered throughout the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with FM.

Effects of a low-pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy on psychological constructs related to pain and quality of life in women with fibromyalgia: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Self-reported psychological variables related to pain have been posited as the major contributors to the quality of life of fibromyalgia (FM) women and should be considered when implementing therapeutic strategies among this population. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of low-pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on psychological constructs related to pain (i.e., pain catastrophism, pain acceptance, pain inflexibility, mental defeat) and quality of life in women with FM. METHODS: This was a randomized controlled trial. Thirty-three women with FM were randomly allocated to a low-pressure hyperbaric oxygen therapy group (HBOTG) (n=17), who received an 8-week intervention (5 sessions per week), and a control group (CG) (n=16). All women were assessed at baseline (T0) and upon completion of the study (T1) for self-perceived pain intensity, pain catastrophism, pain acceptance, pain inflexibility, mental defeat and quality of life. RESULTS: At T1, the HBOTG improved across all variables related to pain (i.e. self-perceived pain intensity, pain catastrophism, pain acceptance, pain flexibility, mental defeat) (p<0.05) and quality of life (p<0.05). In contrast, the CG showed no improvements in any variable. Furthermore, significant differences between the groups were found in quality of life (p<0.05) after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS: HBOT is effective at improving the psychological constructs related to pain (i.e. pain catastrophism, pain acceptance, pain flexibility, mental defeat) and quality of life among women with FM. Clinical Trial Link Clinical Trials gov identifier (NCT03801109).

Health personnel perception about central sensitivity syndrome-fibromyalgia patients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Fibromyalgia is characterized by musculoskeletal pain and asthenia of chronic course. Fibromyalgia patients are often a challenge for the health care community as a whole. Existing studies are often limited to the opinion of rheumatologists or family physicians. With this study we seek to know what are the actions, perceptions and knowledge of health professionals as a whole when caring for patients with this disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional study, by means of a self-administered and anonymous survey. Distributed mainly in hospital wards and primary care centers. Statistical analysis of the variables collected was performed (p < 0.05). RESULTS: 200 surveys were collected, most of them physicians 63.5% (n = 127) or nurses 25.5% (n = 51). 71% of physicians reported using the WHO analgesic scale. 53% (n = 59) use NSAIDs or Paracetamol. Antidepressants are the third drug of choice. Most believe that the referral specialists should be rheumatologists or primary care physicians, a similar percentage, that management should be multidisciplinary. 52% feel discouraged or annoyed when dealing with these patients. Physicians have more negative connotations and believe that the care that the patient receives is mostly influenced by the diagnosis of fibromyalgia, compared to nurses and other professionals. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows that the lack of knowledge and therapeutic tools generates, to a large extent, frustration and discomfort in health personnel. It is important to develop new approaches to this entity.

El viaje del paciente con fibromialgia en Latinoamérica / The patient journey of fibromyalgia in Latin America

Objetivos: Explorar la experiencia de las personas con fibromialgia (FM) en países latinoamericanos con objeto de identificar problemas en la atención sanitaria y otros ámbitos potencialmente solucionables. Métodos: Estudio cualitativo con enfoque fenomenológico y de análisis de contenido a través de grupos focales y metodología de viaje del paciente (Ux del inglés User Experience). Se llevaron a cabo 9 grupos focales virtuales con pacientes con FM y profesionales sanitarios en Argentina, México y Colombia reclutados a partir de informantes clave y redes sociales. Resultados: Participaron 43 personas (33 clínicos y 10 pacientes). Los agentes que interaccionan con el paciente en la enfermedad se encuentran en 3 esferas: la de la atención sanitaria, la del apoyo y vida laboral y la del contexto socioeconómico. La línea del viaje presenta 2 grandes tramos, 2 bucles y una línea discontinua delgada. Los 2 grandes tramos representan los tiempos que van desde los primeros síntomas hasta la visita médica y desde el diagnóstico hasta el seguimiento. Los bucles incluyen: 1.°) sucesión de diagnósticos, tratamientos erróneos y derivaciones a especialistas y 2.°) nuevos síntomas cada cierto tiempo, visitas a especialistas y dudas diagnósticas. Pocos pacientes logran la fase final de autonomía. Conclusión: El viaje de una persona con FM en Latinoamérica está lleno de obstáculos. La meta deseada es que todos los agentes entiendan que el automanejo por parte del paciente con FM es una parte indispensable del éxito, y solo se puede lograr accediendo a recursos de forma precoz y guiado por profesionales.(AU)

Objectives: To explore the patient journey of people with fibromyalgia (FM) in Latin American countries in order to identify problems in health care and other areas that may be resolvable. Methods: Qualitative study with phenomenological and content analysis approach through focus groups and patient journey (Ux; User Experience) methodology. Nine virtual focus groups were conducted with FM patients and healthcare professionals in Argentina, Mexico and Colombia recruited from key informants and social networks. Results: Forty-three people participated (33 were clinicians and 10 were patients). The agents interacting with the patient in their disease journey are found in three spheres: healthcare (multiple medical specialists and other professionals), support and work life (including patient associations) and socioeconomic context. The line of the journey presents two large sections, two loops and a thin dashed line. The two major sections represent the time from first symptoms to medical visit (characterized by self-medication and denial) and the time from diagnosis to follow-up (characterized by high expectations and multiple contacts to make life changes that are not realized). The two loop phases include (1) succession of misdiagnoses and mistreatments and referrals to specialists and (2) new symptoms every so often, visits to specialists, diagnostic doubts, and impatience. Very few patients manage to reach the final phase of autonomy. Conclusion: The journey of a person with FM in Latin America is full of obstacles and loops. The desired goal is for all the agents involved to understand that self-management by the patient with FM is an essential part of success, and this can only be achieved with early access to resources and guidance from professionals.(AU)

The patient journey of fibromyalgia in Latin America.

OBJECTIVES: To explore the patient journey of people with fibromyalgia (FM) in Latin American countries in order to identify problems in health care and other areas that may be resolvable. METHODS: Qualitative study with phenomenological and content analysis approach through focus groups and patient journey (Ux; User Experience) methodology. Nine virtual focus groups were conducted with FM patients and healthcare professionals in Argentina, Mexico and Colombia recruited from key informants and social networks. RESULTS: Forty-three people participated (33 were clinicians and 10 were patients). The agents interacting with the patient in their disease journey are found in three spheres: healthcare (multiple medical specialists and other professionals), support and work life (including patient associations) and socioeconomic context. The line of the journey presents two large sections, two loops and a thin dashed line. The two major sections represent the time from first symptoms to medical visit (characterized by self-medication and denial) and the time from diagnosis to follow-up (characterized by high expectations and multiple contacts to make life changes that are not realized). The two loop phases include (1) succession of misdiagnoses and mistreatments and referrals to specialists and (2) new symptoms every so often, visits to specialists, diagnostic doubts, and impatience. Very few patients manage to reach the final phase of autonomy. CONCLUSION: The journey of a person with FM in Latin America is full of obstacles and loops. The desired goal is for all the agents involved to understand that self- management by the patient with FM is an essential part of success, and this can only be achieved with early access to resources and guidance from professionals.

Fibromigraine: a cohort study retrospective / Fibroenxaqueca: um estudo de coorte retrospectivo

OBJECTIVE: To diagnose fibromyalgia in patients with migraine and assess the quality of life of these patients. METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional study was carried out, comparing groups, in a non-randomized sample, consisting of patients diagnosed with migraine. The sample was evaluated using the Widespread Pain Index (WPI) and Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) questionnaires to diagnose fibromyalgia. Quality of life and level of depression were assessed, respectively, using the Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). RESULTS: We interviewed 100 patients (5 men and 95 women) diagnosed with migraine, with a mean age of 37.1±11.0 years, ranging from 19 to 64 years. Thirty-four patients (34%) had migraine and fibromyalgia concomitantly. Migraine predominated in females, both in the presence and absence of fibromyalgia. In both groups, there was no difference in headache characteristics. In the group with fibromyalgia, there was a predominance of allodynia and a higher PHQ-9 score (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with migraine are more predisposed to depression when there is an association with fibromyalgia

OBJETIVO: Diagnosticar fibromialgia em pacientes com enxaqueca e avaliar a qualidade de vida desses pacientes. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um estudo prospectivo, transversal, comparando grupos, em uma amostra não randomizada, composta por pacientes com diagnóstico de enxaqueca. A amostra foi avaliada por meio dos questionários Widespread Pain Index (WPI) e Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) para diagnóstico de fibromialgia. A qualidade de vida e o nível de depressão foram avaliados, respectivamente, por meio do Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6) e do Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). RESULTADOS: Foram entrevistados 100 pacientes (5 homens e 95 mulheres) com diagnóstico de enxaqueca, com idade média de 37,1±11,0 anos, variando de 19 a 64 anos. Trinta e quatro pacientes (34%) apresentavam enxaqueca e fibromialgia concomitantemente. A enxaqueca predominou no sexo feminino, tanto na presença como na ausência de fibromialgia. Em ambos os grupos, não houve diferença nas características da dor de cabeça. No grupo com fibromialgia houve predomínio de alodinia e maior escore no PHQ-9 (p<0,001). CONCLUSÕES: Pacientes com enxaqueca estão mais predispostos à depressão quando há associação com fibromialgia

Low-intensity resistance training promotes a reduction of mechanical hyperalgesia and increase of muscle strength in rats submitted to the diffused chronic muscle pain model / Treinamento resistido de baixa intensidade promove redução da hiperalgesia mecânica e aumento da força muscular em ratos submetidos ao modelo de dor crônica muscular difusa

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is characterized by different factors, such as chronic diffuse muscle pain (CDMP), fatigue and psycho-emotional changes. Among the animal models that mimic FMS, the acid saline model is consolidated in the development and maintenance of CDMP. Resistance training (RT) has been an effective method for reducing pain in FMS. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of resistance training on nociceptive and motor responses in an animal model of chronic diffuse muscular pain. METHODS: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups: resistance training, RT control, amitriptyline (AMITRIP) and AMITRIP control; all treatment protocols lasted 4 weeks. CDMP was induced in all mice. Then, the animals were treated with low-intensity RT (40% 1 maximum repetition) and AMITRIP (10 mg/kg/day). The mechanical paw withdrawal threshold, locomotor activity and muscle strength were evaluated. RESULTS: Animals treated with both RT and AMITRIP showed an increase in the mechanical paw withdrawal threshold (p<0.05) compared to their controls, suggesting a reduction in mechanical hyperalgesia. There was no improvement in locomotor activity in all groups (p>0.05). Animals with CDMP that underwent RT showed an increase in hindlimb muscle strength (p<0.0001) compared to the RT control group. CONCLUSION: Low-intensity resistance training resulted in antihyperalgesic effects and improved muscle strength in animals submitted to the CDMP model.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A síndrome da fibromialgia (SFM) é caracterizada por diferentes fatores, como dor crônica muscular difusa (DCMD), fadiga e alterações psicoemocionais. Dentre os modelos animais que mimetizam a SFM, o modelo de salina ácida é consolidado no desenvolvimento e na manutenção da DCMD. O treinamento resistido (TR) tem sido um método eficaz para redução da dor na SFM. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar os efeitos do TR na resposta nociceptiva e motora em modelo animal de dor crônica muscular difusa. MÉTODOS: Vinte e quatro ratos machos Wistar foram alocados em quatro grupos: treinamento resistido (TR), controle do TR, amitriptilina (AMITRIP) e controle da AMITRIP, todos os protocolos de tratamento tiveram duração de 4 semanas. A DCMD foi induzida em todos os ratos. Em seguida, os animais foram tratados com TR de baixa intensidade (40% 1 repetição máxima) e AMITRIP (10 mg/kg/dia). Foram avaliados o limiar mecânico de retirada de pata, a atividade locomotora e a força muscular. RESULTADOS: Animais tratados tanto com TR quanto com AMITRIP apresentaram aumento do limiar mecânico de retirada de pata (p<0,05) em relação aos seus controles, sugerindo redução da hiperalgesia mecânica. Não foi observada melhora da atividade locomotora em todos os grupos (p>0,05). Animais com DCMD que realizaram TR obtiveram aumento da força muscular dos membros posteriores (p<0,0001) em comparação ao grupo controle do TR. CONCLUSÃO: Treinamento resistido de baixa intensidade resultou em efeitos anti-hiperalgésicos e melhora da força muscular em animais submetidos ao modelo de DCMD.

Las manifestaciones primordiales de la fibromialgia, dolor generalizado e insomnio, en la pintura de Remedios Varo / Fibromyalgia's main features, widespread pain, and insomnia in the paintings of Remedios Varo

La sensibilidad de las artistas plásticas ante el sufrimiento humano ha quedado plasmada de diversas maneras. Este artículo relata las circunstancias que llevaron a la pintora surrealista hispano-mexicana, Remedios Varo, a representar en forma original las 2 manifestaciones cardinales de la fibromialgia: dolor generalizado e insomnio. (AU)

The sensitivity of plastic artists to human suffering has been expressed in different ways. This article recounts the circumstances that led the Spanish-Mexican surrealist painter, Remedios Varo, to depict in an original way the 2 cardinal manifestations of fibromyalgia; widespread pain and insomnia. (AU)

High frequency of gastrointestinal complaints, but insignificant prevalence of gluten-sensitive enteropathies in Brazilian fibromyalgia patients.

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES: Coeliac disease (CD) and non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) cause symptoms like those seen in patients with fibromyalgia (FM) and functional gastrointestinal disorders. There is no consistent data on frequency of these symptoms and no study performed duodenal biopsies to investigate CD/NCGS in Brazilian FM patients. Therefore, we sought to verify the prevalence of CD/NCGS in FM patients and the association between gastrointestinal manifestations and FM symptoms. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty-two individuals with FM (ACR2010) were recruited from FM outpatient clinics of a tertiary hospital. Clinical evaluation included the Widespread Pain Index (WPI), Severity Symptom Scale (SS), Polysymptomatic Distress Scale (PDS), and Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). Subjects were screened for the presence of coeliac antibodies and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (duodenal biopsies) was performed for diagnosis of CD/NCGS. RESULTS: 46 (74.2%) women reported at least one digestive symptom: constipation, abdominal distension, loss of weight/inappetence, and nausea/vomiting. Fourteen (31.8%) presented macroscopic duodenitis and 2(4.5%) had duodenal lymphocytic infiltrates, but none met CD criteria. In 1(1.6%) patient NCGS was confirmed. There was association between presence of any digestive symptom and WPI and SS (fatigue, waking up tired, cognition), but no difference on FIQ between patients with and without gastrointestinal symptoms. CONCLUSION: Gastrointestinal complaints were frequent and associated with increased degree of polysymptomatic distress in FM patients, but presence of these symptoms was not related to overall impact of FM over different dimensions of the patient's life. Moreover, the prevalence of CD/NCGS was very low. This suggests that screening for CD in Brazilian FM patients might not be cost-effective, since the frequency of CD/NCGS was very low.

Etiologia e fisiopatologia da fibromialgia / Etiology and pathophysiology of fibromyalgia

A fibromialgia é uma condição crônica de etiologia desconhecida e desvinculada de marcadores laboratoriais específicos para diagnóstico, devido à pobre caracterização da etiopatogenia. Em geral, as alterações comuns à fibromialgia também são observadas em outras condições de dor crônica, tornando a patogênese controversa entre diferentes condições patológicas. A etiologia desconhecida dificulta o diagnóstico e, consequentemente, repercute em um tratamento não tão eficaz de pacientes com fibromialgia. A restauração de desordens sistêmicas confere amplo espectro de possibilidades terapêuticas com potencial de orientar profissionais a estabelecer metas e métodos de avaliação. Diante disso, essa revisão narrativa se volta para debater hipóteses etiológicas e fisiopatológicas no desenvolvimento da fibromialgia.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition of unknown etiology unrelated to specific laboratory markers for diagnosis because of poor etiopathogenesis. In general, the changes common to fibromyalgia are also seen in other chronic pain conditions, making the pathogenesis controversial among different pathological conditions. The unknown etiology makes the diagnosis difficult and consequently has repercussions on a not so effective treatment of patients with fibromyalgia. The restoration of systemic disorders provides a wide spectrum of therapeutic possibilities with the potential to guide professionals in establishing goals and evaluation methods. Therefore, this narrative review discusses the etiological and pathophysiological hypotheses involved in the development of fibromyalgia.

Prevalence of fibromyalgia in a Brazilian series of patients with multiple sclerosis / Prevalência de fibromialgia em uma série brasileira de pacientes com esclerose múltipla

Abstract Background The prevalence of pain in patients with multiple sclerosis is remarkable. Fibromyalgia has been considered as one of the forms of chronic pain encompassed in multiple sclerosis, but data are restricted to studies from Europe and North America. Objective To assess the prevalence of fibromyalgia in a series of Brazilian patients with multiple sclerosis and the characteristics of this comorbidity. Methods The present cross-sectional study included 60 consecutive adult patients with multiple sclerosis. Upon consent, participants underwent a thorough evaluation for disability, fatigue, quality of life, presence of fibromyalgia, depression, and anxiety. Results The prevalence of fibromyalgia was 11.7%, a figure similar to that observed in previous studies. Patients with the comorbidity exhibited worse scores on fatigue (median and interquartile range [IQR]: 68 [48-70] versus 39 [16.5-49]; p < 0.001), quality of life (mean ± standard deviation [SD]: 96.5 ± 35.9 versus 124.8 ± 28.8; p = 0.021), anxiety (mean ± SD: 22.7 ± 15.1 versus 13.8 ± 8.4; p = 0.021), and depression (median and IQR: 23 [6-28] versus 6 [3-12.5]; p = 0.034) indices than patients without fibromyalgia. There was a strong positive correlation between depression and anxiety scores with fatigue (r = 0.773 and r = 0.773, respectively; p < 0.001). Conversely, a moderate negative correlation appeared between the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), fatigue, and depression scores with quality of life (r= −0.587, r= −0.551, r= −0.502, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusion Fibromyalgia is a comorbidity of multiple sclerosis that can enhance fatigue and decrease quality of life, although depression, anxiety, and disability are factors that can potentiate the impact of the comorbidity.

Resumo Antecedentes A prevalência de dor em pacientes com esclerose múltipla é significativa. A fibromialgia é considerada uma forma de dor crônica encontrada na esclerose múltipla, mas os dados são restritos a estudos europeus e da América do Norte. Objetivo Avaliar a prevalência de fibromialgia em uma série de pacientes com esclerose múltipla e as características desta comorbidade. Métodos O presente estudo transversal incluiu consecutivamente 60 pacientes adultos com esclerose múltipla. Após o consentimento, os participantes foram submetidos à avaliação para determinação de incapacidade, fadiga, qualidade de vida, presença de fibromialgia, depressão e ansiedade. Resultados A prevalência de fibromialgia foi de 11,7%, similar ao observado em estudos prévios. Pacientes com a comorbidade apresentaram piores escores de fadiga (mediana e intervalo interquartil [IIQ]: 68 [48-70] versus 39 [16,5-49]; p < 0,001], qualidade de vida (média ± desvio padrão [DP]: 96,5 ± 35,9 versus 124,8 ± 28,8; p = 0,021), ansiedade (média ± DP: 22,7 ± 15,1 versus 13,8 ± 8,4; p = 0,021) e depressão (mediana e IIQ: 23 (6-28) versus 6 (3-12,5); p = 0,034] do que pacientes sem fibromialgia. Houve correlação positiva forte dos escores de depressão e de ansiedade com a fadiga (r = 0,773 e r = 0,773, respectivamente; p < 0,001). Concomitantemente, houve correlação negativa moderada entre os escores de escala de estado de incapacidade expandida, fadiga e depressão com a qualidade de vida (r = - 0,587, r = - 0,551, r = - 0,502, respectivamente; p < 0,001). Conclusão A fibromialgia é uma comorbidade de esclerose múltipla que pode aumentar a fadiga e diminuir a qualidade de vida, embora depressão, ansiedade e incapacidade sejam fatores potencializadores dessa morbidade associada.

High frequency of gastrointestinal complaints, but insignificant prevalence of gluten-sensitive enteropathies in Brazilian fibromyalgia patients / Alta frecuencia de molestias gastrointestinales, pero prevalencia insignificante de enteropatías sensibles al gluten en pacientes brasileños con fibromialgia

Introduction/Objectives: Coeliac disease (CD) and non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) cause symptoms like those seen in patients with fibromyalgia (FM) and functional gastrointestinal disorders. There is no consistent data on frequency of these symptoms and no study performed duodenal biopsies to investigate CD/NCGS in Brazilian FM patients. Therefore, we sought to verify the prevalence of CD/NCGS in FM patients and the association between gastrointestinal manifestations and FM symptoms. Material and methods: Sixty-two individuals with FM (ACR2010) were recruited from FM outpatient clinics of a tertiary hospital. Clinical evaluation included the Widespread Pain Index (WPI), Severity Symptom Scale (SS), Polysymptomatic Distress Scale (PDS), and Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). Subjects were screened for the presence of coeliac antibodies and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (duodenal biopsies) was performed for diagnosis of CD/NCGS. Results: 46 (74.2%) women reported at least one digestive symptom: constipation, abdominal distension, loss of weight/inappetence, and nausea/vomiting. Fourteen (31.8%) presented macroscopic duodenitis and 2(4.5%) had duodenal lymphocytic infiltrates, but none met CD criteria. In 1(1.6%) patient NCGS was confirmed. There was association between presence of any digestive symptom and WPI and SS (fatigue, waking up tired, cognition), but no difference on FIQ between patients with and without gastrointestinal symptoms. Conclusion: Gastrointestinal complaints were frequent and associated with increased degree of polysymptomatic distress in FM patients, but presence of these symptoms was not related to overall impact of FM over different dimensions of the patient's life. Moreover, the prevalence of CD/NCGS was very low. This suggests that screening for CD in Brazilian FM patients might not be cost-effective, since the frequency of CD/NCGS was very low.(AU)

Introducción/Objetivos: La enfermedad celíaca (EC) y la sensibilidad al gluten no celíaca (SGNC) causan síntomas similares a los observados en pacientes con fibromialgia (FM) y trastornos gastrointestinales funcionales. Ningún estudio realizó biopsias duodenales para investigar EC/SGNC en pacientes brasileños con FM. Por lo tanto, buscamos verificar la prevalencia de EC/SGNC en pacientes con FM y la asociación entre manifestaciones gastrointestinales y síntomas de FM. Material y métodos: Sesenta y dos mujeres con FM (ACR2010) fueron reclutadas de las consultas de FM de un hospital terciario. La evaluación incluyó el índice de dolor generalizado (IDG), la escala de gravedad de síntomas (SS), la escala de angustia polisintomática (EAP) y el cuestionario de impacto de la fibromialgia (FIQ). Los sujetos fueron examinados para la presencia de anticuerpos celíacos y se realizó una endoscopia gastrointestinal superior (biopsias duodenales) para el diagnóstico de EC/SGNC. Se investigaron las asociaciones estadísticas entre las molestias gastrointestinales y los síntomas de FM (p<0,05). Resultados: Un total de 46 (74,2%) mujeres refirieron al menos un síntoma digestivo: estreñimiento, distensión abdominal, pérdida de peso/inapetencia y náuseas/vómitos. Catorce (31,8%) presentaban duodenitis macroscópica y 2 (4,5%) infiltrados linfocíticos duodenales, pero ninguno cumplía criterios de EC. En un (1,6%) paciente se confirmó SGNC. Hubo asociación entre la presencia de síntoma digestivo y IDG y SS (fatiga, despertarse cansado, cognición), pero no hubo diferencia en FIQ entre pacientes con y sin síntomas gastrointestinales. Conclusión: A pesar de la alta prevalencia de síntomas digestivos y su asociación con el grado de amplificación del dolor central, la frecuencia de EC/SGNC fue insignificante. Además, no se observaron diferencias en el impacto de la FM en la calidad de vida (FIQ) en pacientes con y sin síntomas gastrointestinales.(AU)

¿Qué nos ofrece la comunidad para el tratamiento de la fibromialgia? reporte de una experiencia en la región metropolitana de Santiago / What the community has to offer for the fibromyalgia treatment? a report of an experience in the metropolitan region of Santiago

La fibromialgia es un síndrome polisintomático caracterizado por dolor crónico generalizado no articular e idiopático, cuya terapia, tanto farmacológica como no farmacológica, debe ser individualizada a cada paciente e involucrar equipos multidisciplinarios de trabajo. Objetivo del Estudio: Realizar una base de datos para agrupar los recursos comunitarios disponibles para llevar a cabo las terapias no farmacológicas con evidencia en el tratamiento del dolor crónico no oncológico en las comunas de San Joaquín, Macul, Puente Alto, La Florida, La Pintana y San Miguel, Región Metropolitana, Chile. Materiales y Métodos: Se llevó a cabo una búsqueda en internet mediante palabras clave de recursos comunitarios dentro de las comunas antes mencionadas que cumplieran criterios de evidencia en el tratamiento de fibromialgia, además de contactar a servicios municipales y fundaciones orientadas al manejo del dolor no oncológico en la Región Metropolitana, para la confección de una base de datos y un mapa interactivo de fácil acceso y uso con los recursos encontrados. Resultados: Nuestra búsqueda arrojó un total de 78 recursos comunitarios, tanto públicos como privados, que ofrecen alternativas de tratamiento no farmacológico para el manejo del dolor crónico no oncológico y fibromialgia en las cinco comunas descritas. Conclusiones: La fibromialgia es un síndrome polisintomático de difícil manejo frecuente en nuestro país, que incluye como parte de su tratamiento integral diversas medidas no farmacológicas con evidencia reciente, que gracias a la confección de las herramientas creadas para este estudio se espera facilitar el acceso a los recursos disponibles en una zona determinada del Gran Santiago, tanto a los pacientes que padecen estas dolencias como a los profesionales de la salud que indican este tipo de terapias.

Fibromyalgia is a polysymptomatic syndrome characterizedby chronic generalized non-articular and idiopathic pain, whose pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapy must be individualized for each patient and involve multidisciplinary work teams. Objective of the study: To create a database to group the community resources available to carry out non- pharmacological therapies with evidence in the treatment of chronic non-cancer pain in the communes of San Joaquín, Macul, Puente Alto, La Florida, La Pintana and San Miguel, from Metropolitan Region, Chile. Materials and Methods: An internet search was carried out using keywords of community resources within the aforementioned communes that met evidence criteria in the treatment of fibromyalgia, in addition to contacting municipal services and foundations oriented to non- oncological pain management in the Metropolitan Region, for the preparation of a database and an interactive map of easy access and use with the resources found. Results: Our search yielded a total of 78 community resources, both public and private, that offer non- pharmacological treatment alternatives for the management of chronic non-cancer pain and fibromyalgia in the five districts described. Conclusions: Fibromyalgia is a polysymptomatic syndrome of difficult management, common in our country, which includes as part of its comprehensive treatment various non-pharmacological measures with recent evidence, which, thanks to the preparation of the tools created for this study, is expected to facilitate access to resources available in a given area of Santiago de Chile, both to patients suffering from these ailments and to health professionals who indicate this type of therapy.

Efectos de la estimulación transcraneal por corriente directa y de la estimulación magnética transcraneal en pacientes con fibromialgia. Revisión sistemática / Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation in patients with fibromyalgia. A systematic review

ntroducción: La fibromialgia (FM) es una patología crónica caracterizada por la presenciade dolor musculoesquelético generalizado que se asocia a trastornos psicológicos que afectana la calidad de vida. En los últimos a˜nos, la estimulación transcraneal con corriente directa(tDCS) y la estimulación magnética transcraneal (TMS) se han estudiado para el abordaje deldolor crónico. El objetivo de esta revisión es determinar los efectos de la tDCS y la TMS en lossíntomas característicos de los pacientes con FM.Desarrollo: Se realizó una revisión sistemática acorde a los criterios PRISMA. Se realizaronbúsquedas en las bases de datos Medline, Scopus, PEDro y Cochrane Library. Se seleccionaronensayos clínicos aleatorizados que analizaran los efectos de estas intervenciones en el dolor, elumbral de dolor a la presión, la fatiga, la ansiedad y depresión, el catastrofismo y la calidad devida en pacientes con FM. Se incluyeron 14 estudios.Conclusiones: La aplicación de tDCS en el córtex motor es la única intervención que ha mos-trado disminuir el dolor a corto y medio plazo en pacientes con FM. La aplicación de ambasintervenciones ha mostrado mejoras en el umbral de dolor a la presión, el catastrofismo y lacalidad de vida cuando se aplica en el córtex motor, y de la fatiga cuando se aplica en la cortezadorsolateral prefrontal. Los efectos de estas intervenciones en la ansiedad y depresión no sonconcluyentes.(AU)

Introduction: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) is a chronic pathology characterized by widespreadpain commonly associated with psychological distress affecting quality of life. In recent years,transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) havebeen investigated to treat chronic pain. The aim of the current review is to determine theeffects of tDCS and TMS on the main symptoms of patients with FM.Development: A systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines was carried out. The searchstrategy was performed in Medline, Scopus, PEDro and Cochrane Library. Randomized controlledtrials based on the effects of tDCS and TMS on pain, pressure pain threshold, fatigue, anxietyand depression, catastrophizing and quality of life in patients with FM were analysed. Fourteenstudies were included.Conclusions: The application of tDCS to the motor cortex is the only intervention shown todecrease pain in the short and medium-term in patients with FM. The application of bothinterventions showed improvements in pressure pain threshold, catastrophizing and quality oflife when applied to the motor cortex, and in fatigue when applied to the dorsolateral prefrontalcortex. The effects of these interventions on anxiety and depression are unclear.(AU)