Emerging concepts and treatment in neuropathic pain
- Author:
Kongkiat Kulkantrakorn
- Publication Type:Review
- From:Neurology Asia
2012;17(4):265-271
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Knowledge in neuropathic pain has grown rapidly during the past few years. Central and peripheral
sensitization is still believed to be the main pathophysiology. New evidence suggests many potential
new molecular targets and mechanisms, such as cytokines, lysophosphatidic acid and ion channels.
Microglia and astrocyte activation leads to dysregulation of infl ammatory cytokines and pain signaling.
Many subtypes of the sodium channel have been shown to be the culprit for both congenital and
acquired pain syndromes, especially small fi ber neuropathy. Lysophosphatidic acid is thought to act
as an initiator of neuropathic pain, along with other mediators. Animal models of neurodegenerative
diseases and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy reaffi rm the role of nociceptor degeneration and
cytoskeletal breakdown in peripheral neuropathy. With better understanding of its mechanism, it may
lead to new therapeutic targets. Recent trials of new medications, new formulations or new indication
of old drugs have shown promising data. We can look forward to better treatment of this debilitating
symptom in the near future.
- Full text:P020150710494610496494.pdf
