Abstract
Central neuropathic pain is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), and its prevalence increases with physical disability. Sufficient evidence links dysesthetic pain, trigeminal neuralgia, Lhermitte's sign, and painful tonics spasms to plaque formation in the spinal cord and brain, whereas the association with headache and back pain remains unclear. Management varies according to the pain in question. For dysesthetic pain, drugs in use for neuropathic pain in general are recommended as first-line treatment, and emerging evidence suggests some benefit from cannabinoids and levetiracetam. Because of unique characteristics of MS-related trigeminal neuralgia, ganglion and root level neuroablative procedures are worth considering before microvascular decompression. Overall, the lack of controlled clinical trials, together with our limited understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved, form a hindrance to a systematic and rational management of MS-related pain.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.