Some controversy has been generated by the consensus report on fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) published in 1996 (1). The current paper examines this report and offers some additional perspectives on several issues. The consensus report was based primarily on scientific data and provided useful information on various aspects of FMS. However, it is felt that some views, e.g., those on diagnosis in a work or compensation setting, causality, and management may be misinterpreted to the detriment of patient care. Our viewpoint in this paper states that both research data and clinical experience should be used to meaningfully address different aspects of FMS covered in the consensus report. Furthermore, be-cause of continued research in FMS, the finite time limitations of the original report compiled in June of 1994, should be recognized.