A database for fibromyalgia

FMS is a complex condition mainly characterized by the presence of chronic pain. The nature of this complaint thus demands assessment in a hierarchal fashion of the various components of the pain system ranging from the nociceptor through to complex central pain-processing mechanisms. The condition is common and represents the most important defined chronic pain syndrome. Elucidation of the mechanisms and better management of FMS will result in improved knowledge of awhole range of related chronic pain syndromes. The database in FMS is necessarily large but does need to be focused according to the need of the person constructing the databaseand the need of the individual with FMS. As our understanding of FMS evolves, better ways of assessing the various dimensions of the problem will be devised. Perhaps the challenge we face is to bring all the parts together. In doing so, we may find there is a single essential component that links all the clinical features together, which correlates well with severity, disability and outcome, which is amenable to treatment programs, and which is measurable. The search for the soul of the 'elephant' of FMS continues.