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Pain in Neurodegenerative Disease: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives
Marina de Tommaso1, Lars Arendt-Nielsen2, Ruth Defrin3
1Neurophysiopathology of Pain Section, SMBNOS Department, Bari Aldo Moro University, Bari, Italy.
Behavioural Neurology
|June 18, 2016
Summary
Pain is common in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, yet often overlooked in management. More research is needed to understand pain mechanisms and develop effective treatments for these debilitating conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pain Medicine
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Increasing life expectancy leads to a rise in neurodegenerative diseases.
- Management typically focuses on motor, cognitive, and vital functions.
- Pain is a frequent but often unaddressed symptom in these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence and underrecognition of pain in neurodegenerative diseases.
- To review current understanding of pain in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and motor neuron diseases.
- To identify gaps in pain assessment, understanding, and treatment guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on pain in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and motor neuron diseases.
- Analysis of reported pain frequencies and types.
- Evaluation of existing treatment guidelines and therapeutic trials.
Main Results:
- High pain prevalence reported: 38-75% in AD, 40-86% in PD, 19-85% in MND.
- Pain assessment methods vary, limiting detailed reporting on pain type.
- Non-neuropathic pain appears prevalent in MND and PD; data for AD is lacking.
Conclusions:
- Pain is a significant and prevalent issue in neurodegenerative diseases requiring greater attention.
- There is a critical need for validated pain assessment scales and controlled therapeutic trials.
- Further research into pain mechanisms and predisposing factors is essential for improved patient care.
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