Distinguishing Fibromyalgia from Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus
Author Information
Author(s): Ronald Friend, Robert M Bennett
Primary Institution: Fibromyalgia Research Unit, Oregon Health & Science University
Hypothesis
Can clinical questionnaires effectively differentiate fibromyalgia from rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus?
Conclusion
A combination of specific SIQR questions and pain locations can accurately diagnose fibromyalgia in most patients.
Supporting Evidence
- The combination of eight SIQR items and seven pain sites correctly classified 99% of fibromyalgia and 90% of rheumatoid arthritis/systemic lupus patients.
- The study identified that tenderness to touch and specific pain locations were key discriminators between fibromyalgia and other conditions.
- The correct diagnosis was achieved in 97% of patients using a combination of specific SIQR questions and pain locations.
Takeaway
This study found that certain questions about pain and tenderness can help doctors tell if someone has fibromyalgia instead of other similar conditions.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from patients using the FIQR and SIQR questionnaires, employing multiple regression and discriminant analysis to identify predictors of group membership.
Limitations
The sample size for RA/SLE patients was small compared to FM patients, and the study did not include patients with concomitant fibromyalgia.
Participant Demographics
202 fibromyalgia patients, 31 rheumatoid arthritis patients, and 20 systemic lupus erythematosus patients.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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