OBJECTIVES: Many features of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) resemble those of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The goal of this study was to investigate the comorbidity of FMS and PTSD in a cohort of men following an intensive, initial, defined traumatic event. METHODS: One hundred twenty-four males (55 patients with PTSD, 20 patients with major depression, and 49 controls) were evaluated for the presence of FMS. The major traumatic events in all PTSD patients were combat-related. Each individual completed questionnaires characterizing his disease, disabilities, and quality of life. RESULTS: Forty-nine percent of PTSD patients, compared to 5% of major depression patients and none of normal controls, fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology criteria for FMS (P<.0001). Significant correlations were detected between tender points and measured parameters in the PTSD group. CONCLUSIONS: In male patients, PTSD is highly associated with FMS. The degree and impact of these disorders are also highly related.
OBJECTIVES: Many features of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) resemble those of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The goal of this study was to investigate the comorbidity of FMS and PTSD in a cohort of men following an intensive, initial, defined traumatic event. METHODS: One hundred twenty-four males (55 patients with PTSD, 20 patients with major depression, and 49 controls) were evaluated for the presence of FMS. The major traumatic events in all PTSDpatients were combat-related. Each individual completed questionnaires characterizing his disease, disabilities, and quality of life. RESULTS: Forty-nine percent of PTSDpatients, compared to 5% of major depressionpatients and none of normal controls, fulfilled the American College of Rheumatology criteria for FMS (P<.0001). Significant correlations were detected between tender points and measured parameters in the PTSD group. CONCLUSIONS: In male patients, PTSD is highly associated with FMS. The degree and impact of these disorders are also highly related.
Authors: Marcelo Moraes Valença; Fabíola Lys Medeiros; Hugo A Martins; Rodrigo Meirelles Massaud; Mario F P Peres Journal: Curr Pain Headache Rep Date: 2009-10