American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ABFM Practice Questions and Study Guide

The diagnosis of fibromyalgia primarily relies on a comprehensive understanding of the patient's symptoms and history. A detailed symptom history is essential because fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain lasting longer than three months, along with other symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties (often referred to as "fibro fog"), and mood issues. These subjective experiences are critical to forming a diagnosis, as they differentiate fibromyalgia from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

While examination for tender points has traditionally been associated with the diagnosis, the most current criteria emphasize the importance of symptom reporting and duration rather than a strict count of tender points. Laboratory testing is not typically performed for fibromyalgia, as there are no definitive laboratory markers for the condition, and physical examination results alone do not provide sufficient evidence for diagnosis. Thus, understanding the nuanced and broad range of symptoms reported by patients is key to appropriately diagnosing fibromyalgia.