[Neuropathic pain]

Abstract

Neuropathic pain (NP) occurs secondary to lesions in the nervous system. The definition includes conditions with nervous system dysfunction, which creates problems with diagnostic classification. Lesions may be clinically identified, but signs of dysfunction are less specific. New knowledge of mechanisms behind NP has led to the suggestion that NP should be treated based on mechanisms rather than on diagnosis. However, it is not yet possible to identify mechanisms in individual patients, and present knowledge of drug effects builds on diagnosis. An algorithm for treatment of NP is presented.