LEUKOCYTE ALTERATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH FIBROMYALGIA: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Fibromyalgia is a medical condition characterized by chronic widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Studies have investigated leukocyte alterations in patients with fibromyalgia, but the results are limited and inconclusive. In view of the above, the aim of this paper is to perform a literature review in order to search for studies that demonstrate these immunological alterations in patients with Fibromyalgia, searching the scientific databases SciELO, LILACS and PubMed. After reading and analyzing research, it was concluded that some studies reported a decrease in the total number of leukocytes, while others found no significant differences compared to healthy individuals. Certain WBC subpopulations, such as lymphocytes, may also show some changes, but the results are inconsistent. The relationship between leukocyte changes and fibromyalgia is not fully understood, since the disease is multifactorial, involving genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors. In addition, WBC changes may be influenced by comorbidities, medication use, and patients' emotional state. Further research is needed to better understand this relationship and the role of the immune system in the pathogenesis of fibromyalgia.