Concepts and perceptions about fibromyalgia diagnosis and treatment among colombian rheumatologists

Background: Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease characterised by the presence of widespread and persistent musculoskeletal pain associated with a variety of symptoms. The concepts and perceptions around the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia among rheumatologists are not objectively known. The purpose of this study is to obtain objective data using a survey and then describe the concepts and perceptions on the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia among Colombian rheumatologists. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed using a focus group, consisting of two rheumatologists and one expert in qualitative research methods. A questionnaire was designed to evaluate the perceptions and concepts that rheumatologists have on the diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia. The questionnaire was self-completed and anonymous by rheumatologists from the Colombian Association of Rheumatology. Results: A total of 139 rheumatologists completed the questionnaire, with 25.2% (n = 35) of rheumatologists considering that there is not enough evidence to recognise fibromyalgia as a disease. Around one-third (32.4%, n = 45) consider that the 1990 ACR (American College of Rheumatology) criteria are not sufficient to diagnose fibromyalgia, despite the fact that 92.1% (n = 128) of them use the criteria as a tool to approach the diagnosis when suspecting fibromyalgia. The most formulated medications for managing fibromyalgia are antidepressants and analgesics, with both groups being used by 90.6% (n = 126) of the respondents, followed by antiepileptics in 64.7% (n = 90) and analgesics in 26.6% (n = 37). More than three-quarters (76.3%, n = 106) of rheumatologists consider that there should be a multidisciplinary approach to the patient with fibromyalgia. Conclusion: Objective information is presented on the perceptions of fibromyalgia among a group of Colombian rheumatologists, reporting a frequent use of the ACR 1990 classification criteria. As regards treatment, a high percentage use antidepressants and antiepileptics. Most rheumatologists believe that a rehabilitation physician should be among the leaders of multidisciplinary management in the treatment of fibromyalgia patients.