Background Neuropathic pain(NPP) is a common chronic pain caused by somatic sensory nervous system injury or disease, which affects the quality of patients′ life seriously. However, the current treatment of NPP is limited. Objective This article aims to classify the pathogenesis of NPP through a review of the latest researches, which can be helpful to the study of new therapeutic strategies. Content Peripheral sensitization and central sensitization caused by various factors after nerve injury are the main reasons for the development of NPP. Peripheral sensitization is mediated by neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and the change of peripheral neuronal ion channels, in the central nervous system, increased expression of excitatory amino acids and their receptors, decreased expression of inhibitory amino acids and activation of microglia and astrocytes are involved in central sensitization. Trend It is of great significance to clarify the mechanism of NPP for the future development of targeted drugs and pain releasement. Key words: Neuropathic pain; Peripheral sensitization; Central sensitization