Treatment of the localized pain of postherpetic neuralgia

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a neuropathic pain condition that can arise as a complication following herpes zoster infection, with pain often localized to the affected dermatome. Patients are initially likely to seek treatment for PHN pain from their primary care practitioner; however, adequate pain relief is difficult to achieve in many patients. Combination therapies are often used and have shown promise, but there is still limited clinical evidence in the literature to support them. This article reviews the recent literature and guidelines on PHN treatment, with a focus on combination therapies, and seeks to help primary health care practitioners select treatment strategies that provide immediate relief for patients with localized PHN pain.