Ask a doctor on the topic of Other questions to doctors

Is it really fibromyalgia or something else?

September 23, 2014 | 100,00 EUR | answered by Dr. David Meyer

Hello.

I have a question regarding fibromyalgia (FMS).

About 6 years ago, my wife was diagnosed with this condition. She has severe pain in her arms, legs, hands, back, and chest, as well as muscle weakness and cramps, numbness, tingling, fatigue syndrome, herniated discs, etc.! Since no other suitable diagnosis(es) has been found so far, FMS has come into play. However, there were no psychological triggers.

In addition to the above symptoms, my wife has had consistently elevated inflammation levels for many years, as well as oligoclonal bands/IGG in the cerebrospinal fluid (pleocytosis) and slightly abnormal rheumatism values.

Does this still indicate FMS or rather an autoimmune disease? What could it be (specialty)?

Note:
Neurologists rule out MS or muscle diseases (e.g. PROMM). The Center for Rare Diseases in Hannover rules out a rare disease. The rheumatologist rules out rheumatism. The endocrinologist does not rule everything out and suspects an autoimmune disease, but has no ideas on how to investigate further. All other specialists deny their respective responsibilities and argue for a psychological cause.

Thank you for your effort.

Dr. David Meyer

Dear inquirer,

indeed, the symptoms you described suggest fibromyalgia, although rheumatoid arthritis can also cause similar symptoms. Does your wife also experience pain at the muscle-tendon junctions, the so-called pressure points? How is your wife's fine motor skills? Since "psychological factors" are often mentioned, are there currently any psychological stressors for your wife or within the family?

Oligoclonal bands can also be present differentially in multiple sclerosis. This has already been ruled out in your case. Considering the numbness and tingling, I would not rule out an autoimmune disease and would recommend consulting a neurologist. Has an electromyography been performed? Have any treatment attempts been made that may have brought improvement?

I am happy to assist you further.
Kind regards,
Dr. Meyer