Pain associated with multiple sclerosis: systematic review and proposed classification

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pain Medicine
• Systematic Review

Background:

• Pain is a frequent and debilitating symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Previous estimates of MS pain prevalence have varied significantly due to diverse methodologies.
• Understanding the scope and impact of pain in MS is crucial for patient care and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize current knowledge on the association between MS and pain.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of MS pain prevalence, types, and influencing factors.
• To establish a foundation for future research in MS pain management and understanding.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review spanning four decades of research on MS and pain.
• Analysis of studies employing various methodologies to assess pain prevalence and characteristics.
• Synthesis of data to identify common pain types, associated factors, and quality of life impacts.

Main Results:

• Point prevalence of pain in MS patients is nearly 50%; approximately 75% report pain within a month.
• Pain significantly affects health-related quality of life, including functional abilities and work capacity.
• Associated factors include older age, longer disease duration, depression, functional impairment, and fatigue.
• Common pain types include extremity pain, trigeminal neuralgia, Lhermitte's sign, painful tonic spasms, back pain, and headache.

Conclusions:

• Pain is a highly prevalent and impactful symptom in multiple sclerosis.
• Further research is needed to elucidate pain mechanisms and develop effective treatment strategies.
• This review highlights the need for standardized methodologies in future MS pain studies.