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A little help from steroids in oncology
1Supportive and Palliative Care Unit, Institut Jules Bordet-Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Brussels, Belgium.
Journal of Translational Internal Medicine
|February 14, 2017
Summary
Corticosteroids show promise in managing cancer-related bone and neuropathic pain, potentially reducing pain intensity. Further research is needed to confirm their effectiveness in these nonspecific indications.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pain Management
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Steroids are utilized in oncology for anticancer and antiswelling effects.
- Corticosteroids may alleviate refractory symptoms like dyspnea and gastrointestinal obstruction.
- The efficacy of steroids in nonspecific indications requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of corticosteroids in managing bone and neuropathic pain.
- To evaluate the role of corticosteroids as adjuvant analgesics alongside opioids.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical practice and existing studies.
- Analysis of pain management strategies involving corticosteroids.
Main Results:
- Clinical practice and studies suggest corticosteroids may be effective for bone and neuropathic pain.
- Pain reduction is associated with anti-inflammatory, antiswelling, neuroimmune modulation, and anti-angiogenesis effects.
Conclusions:
- Corticosteroids show potential as an adjunct therapy for cancer-related bone and neuropathic pain.
- The mechanisms of pain relief involve multiple pathways including anti-inflammatory and neuroimmune effects.