Visceral pain

Visceral pain, which originates from organ tissues of the thorax, abdomen or pelvis, is generally perceived as a deep, dull and vague sensation; in most cases it cannot even be clearly described, being a sense of discomfort, malaise or oppression rather than real pain. Crushing, cutting and burning generally have no algogenic effect in the viscera whereas mechanical stimulation, ischemia and chemical stimulation, separately or in combinations, may cause pain. With these characteristics, visceral pain differs from somatic pain. The characteristics of visceral pain, perception and transmission of painful visceral stimuli are explained, some common visceral pain syndromes are presented and sympathetic neurodestructive approaches as a treatment option are described in this review.