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Peripheral neuropathic pain--a multidimensional burden for patients
K Meyer-Rosberg1, A Kvarnström, E Kinnman
1Astra Pain Control AB, SE-151 85 Södertälje, Sweden. karin.meyer-rosberg@quintiles.com
European Journal of Pain (London, England)
|December 18, 2001
Summary
Peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) significantly impairs patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and daily functioning. Many patients experience inadequate pain relief and side effects, highlighting a substantial burden of illness.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pain Medicine
- Quality of Life Research
Background:
- Peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) presents a significant challenge in patient care.
- Assessing the impact of PNP on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is crucial for effective treatment evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and burden of illness in patients with peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP).
- To identify reliable instruments for assessing treatment outcomes in PNP patients.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 126 patients with PNP from multidisciplinary pain clinics.
- Utilized Short Form 36 (SF-36) and Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) for HRQoL assessment.
- Pain intensity (VAS), discomfort, symptoms, and treatment efficacy/tolerability were evaluated.
Main Results:
- All HRQoL dimensions assessed by SF-36 and NHP were significantly impaired in PNP patients.
- SF-36 proved a valid instrument for measuring the impact of PNP on HRQoL.
- Many patients reported poor pain relief, treatment discontinuation due to side effects, and significant daily life impairment, including reduced work status (52%).
Conclusions:
- PNP imposes a substantial burden on patients, characterized by impaired HRQoL, troublesome symptoms, and limited treatment efficacy.
- SF-36 is a reliable tool for assessing HRQoL in PNP.
- There is a critical need for improved treatment strategies for peripheral neuropathic pain.