Neuropathic pain

Question 1

What causes neuropathic pain?

Answer 1

Abnormal functioning of the sensory nerves delivering abnormal and painful signals to the brain

Question 2

Name 2 causes of neuropathic pain

Answer 2

• Postherpetic neuralgia from shingles is in the distribution of a dermatome and usually on the trunk
• Nerve damage from surgery
• Multiple sclerosis
• Diabetic neuralgia typically affects the feet
• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Question 3

Name 2 features of neuropathic pain

Answer 3

• Burning
• Tingling
• Pins and needles
• Electric shocks
• Loss of sensation to touch of the affected area

Question 4

Name 2 of the 4 first line medication for neuropathic pain, and what kind of drug are they

Answer 4

• Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant
• Duloxetine is an SNRI antidepressant
• Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant
• Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant

Question 5

What is the first line treatment for trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer 5

Carbamazepine

Question 6

1) What is complex regional pain syndrome?
2) Where does the pain normally occur?
3) What is it usually triggered by?
4) Name 2 features/symptoms of the condition

Answer 6

1) Condition where areas are affected by abnormal nerve functioning causing neuropathic pain and abnormal sensations
2) Limbs
3) Injury to the area
4) Pain, hypersensitivity, colour change, flushing, abnormal sweating, abnormal hair growth swelling, temperature change