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Review
. 2022 Dec 16;12(12):1727.
doi: 10.3390/brainsci12121727.

Review of the Treatments for Central Neuropathic Pain

Breanna L Sheldon  1 , Zachary T Olmsted  1 , Shelby Sabourin  1 , Ehsaun Heydari  1 , Tessa A Harland  2 , Julie G Pilitsis  1   3
Affiliations
Review

Review of the Treatments for Central Neuropathic Pain

Breanna L Sheldon et al. Brain Sci. .

Abstract

Central neuropathic pain (CNP) affects millions worldwide, with an estimated prevalence of around 10% globally. Although there are a wide variety of treatment options available, due to the complex and multidimensional nature in which CNP arises and presents symptomatically, many patients still experience painful symptoms. Pharmaceutical, surgical, non-invasive, cognitive and combination treatment options offer a generalized starting point for alleviating symptoms; however, a more customized approach may provide greater benefit. Here, we comment on the current treatment options that exist for CNP and further suggest the need for additional research regarding the use of biomarkers to help individualize treatment options for patients.

Keywords: central neuropathic pain (CNP); pharmacological treatment; surgical treatment.

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Conflict of interest statement

Julie G. Pilitsis receives grant support from Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Abbott, NIH 2R01CA166379, NIH R01EB030324, NIH Blueprint 3U54EB015408, and NIH U44NS115111. She is the medical advisor for Aim Medical Robotics and has stock equity. All other authors have no further or distinct disclosures.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Flowchart of potential treatments for central neuropathic pain conditions.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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