A CME/CE Satellite Lunch Symposium held in conjunction with the 27th Annual Meeting of the American Pain Society

Tampa Convention Center
Ballroom D
Tampa, Florida

Friday, May 9, 2008
12:30–2:00 PM


Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome estimated to affect 2% of the adult population. In addition to the characteristic widespread pain, patients with fibromyalgia may also experience fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and mood disorders. The syndrome is not only associated with significant disability and reduced quality of life for patients, but it also poses major diagnostic and treatment challenges for healthcare providers. Substantial progress in basic science and clinical research has been made toward a better understanding of the complex pathophysiologic and genetic mechanisms underlying fibromyalgia. Several pharmacologic agents, most of which are medications traditionally categorized as antidepressants or anticonvulsants, have been effective in trials and are in various stages of investigation or FDA approval. Increasing data from clinical trials and expanding treatment options have also led to the development of a set of up-to-date evidence-based guidelines offering clinicians a stepwise approach to management. These guidelines acknowledge the heterogeneity of fibromyalgia and stress the importance of educating patients while employing a combination of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies, including exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy. Given the burden and complexity of fibromyalgia syndrome, recent advances in the understanding of its pathophysiology, and new data on therapeutic interventions, it is essential to provide evidence-based education for clinicians who specialize in pain and play a critical role as experts and consultants in the care of patients with fibromyalgia.


This activity is designed to meet the educational needs of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, and other healthcare practitioners who specialize in pain.


Upon completion of this course, the participants should be able to:
• Summarize advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia
• Evaluate the usefulness and limitations of available tools for diagnosing and monitoring fibromyalgia
• Utilize available evidence and resources to design treatment plans that incorporate both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches into the care of patients with fibromyalgia


The Center for Health Care Education, LLC (CHCE), is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.


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