Prevalence of Generalized Joint Hypermobility and Fibromyalgia Syndrome in the Children Population of Trabzon: A Turkish Study

Abstract

Objective: Generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) are two clinical conditions that may cause common musculoskeletal pain during childhood. Our study aimed to evaluate the frequency of juvenile FMS and GJH in children aged 11-18 years in the province Trabzon as well as to evaluate the correlation between these two conditions. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 437 students aged 11-18 years who received education in Trabzon. Questionnaire forms were filled, and each student was examined. The children reported to have any disease were excluded from the study. GJH was diagnosed according to criteria of Beighton diagnosis. The presence of FMS was determined according to the 1990 American College of Rheumatology classification criteria. A total of 437 students [209 girls (52.2%) and 228 (47.8%) boys] participated in the study. The mean age was 14.3±1.7 years for girls and 14.7±1.79 years for boys. Results: The frequency of GJH was found to be 9.1% and that of FMS was found to be 5.9% for children included in the study. Although significant difference was observed among the female and male participants in terms of the frequency of GJH (p=0.023), no such difference was detected in of the frequency of FMS (p=0.065). A statistically significant and highly negative correlation was found between age and Beighton score (r=-0.187, p<0.001). A statistically significant and highly negative correlation was found between body mass index and Beighton score (r=-0.097, p<0.05). There was a correlation between success level at school and tender points. Both FMS and GJH were detected in one patient. No correlation was detected between Beighton score and tender points. Conclusion: Similar to children in other countries, GJH and FMS are also non-rare clinical conditions in Turkey.