Questionnaire on neuropathic pain: a European neurologist survey

A survey was conducted among European neurologists to obtain information on their interest in, knowledge on, and practice in the treatment of neuropathic pain. A simple questionnaire with 11 closed and one open question was distributed at national meetings, via e-mail lists of national Neurological Societies, and through the EFNS website. Data were collected from 745 neurologists in 11 countries. The majority of the respondents stated to be familiar with neuropathic pain and considered it part of their specialty. The ratio between peripheral and central neuropathic pains was 10:1, with diabetic neuropathy and radiculopathy the conditions being seen most often. Antiepileptic and antidepressant drugs were by far the drug classes most used (73%), with 2/3 of the patients reaching at least moderate pain relief.