Kosin Med J.
2011 Jun;26(1):1-8.
New Diagnostic and Classification Criteria of Chronic Pain Diseases: Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia and Spondylarthritis
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Internal Medicine, Kosin University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea. gtah@hanmail.net
Abstract
- Rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and spondylarthritis are important diseases causing chronic pain and disability in rheumatologic areas. The classification and diagnostic criterias of them were made on the basis of clinical features, radiologic and laboratory findings and have been used decades ago. According to the development of new knowledge about etiology and pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases, the need for new criteria has been increased. In recent years, new criteria for these diseases have been developed, and they allow the early assignment of diseases and early start of therapy. In this review, the author summarizes recent advances and changes in diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and spondylarthritis.