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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 21, 2026

A Protocol of Manual Tests to Measure Sensation and Pain in Humans
07:28

A Protocol of Manual Tests to Measure Sensation and Pain in Humans

Published on: December 19, 2016

Laboratory tools for assessing neuropathic pain.

Giulia Di Stefano1, Silvia La Cesa, Antonella Biasiotta

  • 1Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, University Sapienza, Viale Università 30, 00185 Rome, Italy.

Neurological Sciences : Official Journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology
|May 31, 2012
PubMed
Summary

Neuropathic pain affects 7% of the population. This review details reliable lab tools like quantitative sensory testing and skin biopsy for assessing this condition by examining nociceptive pathways.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pain Research
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Neuropathic pain, resulting from somatosensory system damage, impacts approximately 7% of the global population.
  • Understanding and diagnosing neuropathic pain is crucial due to its significant prevalence and impact on quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and highlight the most dependable laboratory methodologies for the assessment of neuropathic pain.
  • To provide an overview of diagnostic tools that specifically evaluate the nociceptive pathways involved in pain signaling.

Main Methods:

  • Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) to assess thermal and mechanical sensitivity.
  • Laser-Evoked Potentials (LEPs) to measure the brain's response to noxious heat stimuli.
  • Skin biopsy to examine small fiber nerve density and morphology.

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Last Updated: May 21, 2026

A Protocol of Manual Tests to Measure Sensation and Pain in Humans
07:28

A Protocol of Manual Tests to Measure Sensation and Pain in Humans

Published on: December 19, 2016

Assessment of Nerve Injury-Induced Mechanical Hypersensitivity in Rats Using an Orofacial Operant Pain Assay
07:39

Assessment of Nerve Injury-Induced Mechanical Hypersensitivity in Rats Using an Orofacial Operant Pain Assay

Published on: July 26, 2022

Main Results:

  • QST, LEPs, and skin biopsy are presented as reliable tools for objective neuropathic pain assessment.
  • These methods allow for the selective evaluation of nociceptive pathways, aiding in differential diagnosis.
  • The review synthesizes current evidence on the utility and application of these diagnostic procedures.

Conclusions:

  • Established laboratory tools offer reliable and specific methods for diagnosing neuropathic pain.
  • Accurate assessment of neuropathic pain is essential for targeted treatment strategies.
  • Further research may refine these techniques for even greater diagnostic precision.