pathogenesis

Last reviewed 06/2023

There are probably multiple factors involved in the pathogenesis of fibromyalgia syndrome. However the sleep disturbance is thought to be of major importance:

• there is a loss of non-REM sleep
• a fibromyalgia-like syndrome may be induced in normal volunteers be depriving them of non-REM sleep

Reduced aerobic fitness may also be important.

Affective symptoms are associated with the fibromyalgia syndrome but whether they are primary or secondary is unknown.

A viral cause for the fibromyalgia syndrome is not supported by any evidence.