Long-lasting mood deterioration following transcranial direct current stimulation treatment for fibromyalgia: A case report

Key Clinical MessageWhile tDCS has been studied as a safe and effective tool for managing pain in fibromyalgia, there is a possibility of triggered long-lasting mood changes. TDCS may potentially negatively affect mood in specific individuals with fibromyalgia. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive neuromodulator that showed promising results in pain reduction among individuals with fibromyalgia (FM). Despite the potential benefits, it may have some adverse events that are mainly transient. However, long-lasting effects can also occur. We presented a 31-year-old man whose symptoms and signs were consistent with fibromyalgia, and he received tDCS over C3 to reduce diffuse pain. Although, immediately after fulfilling the session, he became restless, agitated, and aggressive, and his symptoms lasted approximately 2 months later.