Which condition is marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue?

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. This condition affects the way the brain processes pain signals, leading to a heightened sensitivity to pain, which is a hallmark symptom. Individuals with fibromyalgia often experience a variety of other symptoms, including stiffness, tender points on the body, and an increased level of fatigue that is not relieved by rest.

Understanding these symptoms helps in distinguishing fibromyalgia from other conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and tendinitis. While arthritis involves joint inflammation and pain, it does not typically present with the same level of widespread pain and fatigue seen in fibromyalgia. Osteoporosis primarily concerns bone density and fractures rather than widespread body pain. Tendinitis is localized inflammation of a tendon, which does not align with the general musculoskeletal pain associated with fibromyalgia. Therefore, the defining features of fibromyalgia make it the correct choice in this context.