A Systematic Scoping Review and Conceptual Analysis of New-Onset Fibromyalgia Manifestations After Non-Hospitalized COVID-19: Empirics, Definitions, Methodologies, Pathophysiology, Mapping of Literature, and Knowledge Gaps

This systematic scoping review investigates the emergence of new-onset fibromyalgia following non-hospitalized COVID-19, analyzing 228 records. It highlights the overlap between long COVID-19 symptoms and conditions like fibromyalgia and ME/CFS, proposing a neuromechanobiological model involving central sensitization, myofibroblast activity, and extracellular matrix remodeling as potential mechanisms. Despite extensive research, the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia remains unclear, and effective treatments are lacking. The review emphasizes significant knowledge gaps and the need for further research to improve understanding and management of these conditions. It calls for standardized criteria and consistent methodologies to enhance future research and meta-analyses, noting the complexity of long COVID and its diverse presentations.