Neuropathic pain Flashcards
1
Q
What is it caused by?
A
abnormal functioning of sensory nerves which send abnormal & painful signals to brain
2
Q
Aetiology?
A
- post-herpetic neuralgia from shingles
- nerve damage during surgery
- MS
- trigeminal nerualgia
- diabetic neuralgia (usually affecting feet)
- complex regional pain syndrome
3
Q
Typical features?
A
- burning
- tingling
- pins&needles
- electrical shocks
4
Q
Ix?
A
DN4 Questionnaire
- used to assess the characteristics of pain & determine the likelihood of it being neuropathic
- a score of >4/10 suggests it is likely to be neuropathic
5
Q
Mx?
A
- Amitryptiline
- Gabapentin
- Pregabalin
- Duloxetine
6
Q
what are pregabalin and gabapentin?
A
anti-convulsants
7
Q
Other options
A
- Tramadol
- only as a rescue in acute flares
- Capsaicin
- chilli pepper cream, to be used for localised area of pain
- physiotherapy
- to build strength
- psychological input
8
Q
what is Complex Regional Pain syndrome
A
condition where areas are affected by abnormal functioning of nerves, causing neuropathic pain and abnormal signals
Usually isolated to one limb, and often occurs following injury to the area
Area becomes very painful and hypersensitive. It can also intermittently swell, change temperature, colour, flush with blood etc
