Psychosocial aspects of fibromyalgia.

The view that fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a psychiatric disorder or can be caused by stress or abuse is unproven. The construct of posttraumatic FMS has not been adequately validated. Similarly, there is no evidence that communicating the diagnosis to patients causes iatrogenic consequences. Research suggesting a higher rate of posttraumatic stress disorder among those with FMS is weak. More research examining specific psychological processes in FMS is desirable. Because of the potential for harm to patients, clinicians should be cognizant of possible undue influences on medical opinion by agencies providing health care and research funding.