Serum irisin levels and symptom severity in women with fibromyalgia

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between irisin levels and clinical symptoms in patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia (FM) and to determine whether irisin could be used as a biomarker in the diagnosis of FM. Materials and Methods: This prospective case-control study included 40 female patients with FM and 40 age-matched healthy female controls recruited between June and August 2024. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were recorded, and disease severity, anxiety, and depression were evaluated using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Beck Depression Inventory. Morning venous blood samples were obtained to assess routine laboratory parameters and serum irisin levels. Clinical and biochemical variables were statistically compared between the groups. Results: Irisin levels were significantly higher in the case group (median 60.07) compared to the control group (median 17.56). A positive correlation was observed between irisin levels and FIQ scores, but no significant correlation was found between BDI or BAI scores. Conclusion: Serum irisin levels were significantly elevated in patients with FM, suggesting a potential role for irisin in the pathophysiology of the disease. Irisin may serve as a promising biomarker for disease activity and discrimination of FM. Larger, multicenter, and longitudinal studies are needed to clarify its clinical utility and underlying mechanisms.