BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) had raised controversy including its existence. From early twentieth century, it was established as a disease, causing disability, where there are symptoms without signs, biomarkers or investigational abnormalities. It is common in all ethnic groups across countries. A considerable fraction of outpatients are FMS patients. So, this study was planned to assess the awareness of this clinical entity among medical professionals at different levels. MATERIALS AND METHODS Qualitative study using in depth interview was conducted among undergraduate (UG) medical students doing clinical posting, house surgeons and internal medical residents. Informal data collection was done from internists, orthopaedicians, psychiatrists & neurologists. All were interviewed at their work places. Enquiries were made regarding FMS, aetiopathogenesis, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, approach to FMS and management. Patients were interviewed in neurology OPD. Data was collected in detail regarding symptomatology, number of specialty consultations, investigations, interference with work and relationships, economic burden incurred, drug treatment and loss of hope. Enquiry was done to know whether they were told about their disease. They were followed up. RESULTS Undergraduate students, house surgeons and residents were unable to diagnose FMS. Residents were able to diagnose, but occasional errors were observed. Attitude of some of senior consultants were sceptical. Most patients were unaware of the diagnosis. CONCLUSION Knowledge and attitude in relation with FMS is poor among medical students and clinicians. Patients like to get educated about their illness.
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