Fibromyalgia, a non-specific disorder, is also sometimes known as fibrositis or chronic pain syndrome. Characterized by a feeling of restlessness, persistent fatigue, and frequently recurring muscle stiffness, Fibromyalgia is similar to chronic fatigue disorder and is also sometimes called the ‘soft tissue rheumatism’.

As the symptoms keep recurring quite frequently and there is no proper cure for the disease as such, the disease often becomes very frustrating and depressing for both the doctor and the patient. Although environmental factors are thought to be the key contributors to the development and manifestation of this disorder, latest researches have shown that fibromyalgia also have genetic linkages. A detailed study of the genetics of this disorder clearly reveals that inherited or genetic factors are also equally involved in causing the disease.

It has been seen that fibromyalgia does run in the patient families. However, this fact is not enough to confirm genetic influence as a shared environment in the family may also be the reason for all the members getting the same kind of a disorder. But, substantial evidence has been recently documented to prove a strong link between fibromyalgia and genetics. In fact, it is now proved that multiple genes interact with various environmental factors to cause this stress disorder.

Following are the most important genes or genetic complexes involved in causing fibromyalgia:

• HLA (Tissue types)
• Serotonin Transporter Genes (5-HTT gene’s S/S genotype found only in people suffering from fibromyalgia)
• Genes that make dopamine neurotransmitters more sensitive
• 3-MPHG, a norepinephrine metabolite, is reduced significantly in Fibromyalgia cases due to inhibition of the genes coding for it.
• Genes coding for COMT are commonly found in patients.
• Genes coding for Substance P show increased activity.

Considerable progress has already been made towards exploring the genetic mechanisms responsible for this condition. This advancement in the field of genetics will certainly enable novel and more effective treatments to be developed for fibromyalgia, which largely remains incurable till date.

More Articles :

• Early Symptoms Of Fibromyalgia
• Fibromyalgia And Anesthesia
• Fibromyalgia And Genetics
• Fibromyalgia Symptoms
• How Do You Get Fibromyalgia ?
• Raw Diet And Fibromyalgia
• What Is Fibromyalgia ?