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Analgesic Treatment Approach for Postherpetic Neuralgia: A Narrative Review
Edmundo Gónima Valero1, Walter Antanas Sosa Mendoza2, Diana A Sarmiento3
1Edmundo Gónima Valero, M.D, Anesthesiologist and Pain Management Specialist, Chief - Pain Management and Palliative Care Department, Hospital Militar Central, Bogotá, Colombia.
Journal of Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy
|February 2, 2023
Summary
Early antiviral treatment and individualized care are vital for managing post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), a painful nerve condition caused by Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) reactivation. Interventional therapies offer promising outcomes for chronic cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) results from peripheral nerve damage due to Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) reactivation.
- PHN presents as neuropathic pain, often challenging to manage in chronic stages.
Approach:
- Early initiation of antiviral regimens is crucial for PHN prevention.
- Pharmacological treatments require patient-specific individualization to optimize efficacy and minimize side effects.
Key Points:
- Interventional procedures are increasingly important for refractory PHN cases.
- A multimodal approach combining therapies guided by experienced specialists yields promising results.
Conclusions:
- Objective diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for effective PHN management.
- Evidence supports interventional therapies and personalized treatment strategies with clear therapeutic goals.
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