Fibromyalgia and Skin Disorders: A Systematic Review

J Clin Med. 2024 Jul 27;13(15):4404. doi: 10.3390/jcm13154404.

Abstract

Background: Fibromyalgia is a complex multifaceted syndrome primarily characterised by chronic musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and functional symptoms. Although FM is known to be associated with several comorbidities, the aim of this systematic review was to comprehensively examine the available evidence regarding the relationship between FM and dermatological manifestations. Methods: We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and MedLine and Web of Science (WOS) databases were searched up to June 2023. After removing duplicate records, 21 articles were deemed eligible for inclusion in the qualitative synthesis. Results: Overall, the included studies revealed an increased frequency of FM among patients with cutaneous diseases, including psoriasis, chronic urticaria, contact allergy, acneiform disorders, hidradenitis suppurativa, and vitiligo. Additionally, the presence of comorbid FM may intensify skin conditions, which has a negative impact on quality of life and vice versa. Conclusions: Although the causal mechanisms of FM are still far from being understood, this systematic review suggests a relationship between FM and skin disorders. However, further research is encouraged in this area.

Keywords: fibromyalgia; hidradenitis suppurativa; psoriasis; skin disorders; urticaria; vitiligo.

Publication types

  • Review

Grants and funding

This research was supported by project 5 × 1000 Fund of Italian Ministry of Health, year 2021, “Infiammazione cronica e senescenza cellulare: caratterizzazione del fenotipo senescente di condrociti e sinoviociti di pazienti affetti da osteoartrite e artrite reumatoide ed effetti del milieu settico”.