Is fibromyalgia an autoimmune disease? A necessary reassessment based on current evidence
Keywords:
fibromyalgia, autoimmunity, cytokines, central sensitization, antibodies, chronic painAbstract
Fibromyalgia has traditionally been defined as a non-inflammatory chronic pain syndrome, primarily mediated by central sensitization mechanisms. However, recent evidence suggests that a subset of patients may exhibit immunologic features, potentially of autoimmune origin. Studies such as that by Goebel et al. have shown that passive transfer of IgG from fibromyalgia patients induces pain-related symptoms in murine models. Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines and a high prevalence of antinuclear antibodies have also been documented in these patients. The coexistence of FM with systemic autoimmune diseases further supports the hypothesis of underlying immune dysregulation. While fibromyalgia cannot yet be classified as a classic autoimmune disease, an immunologic phenotype may be present in a significant proportion of patients. This evolving perspective may reshape diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, fostering a more personalized model of care.
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