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High-Dose 8% Capsaicin Patch in Treatment of Chronic Neuropathic Back Pain in a Pregnant Woman: A Case Report
Seung Mi Oh1,2, Yerissa A Diaz1, Ludovica Stilli3
1Anesthesiology Montefiore Medical Center.
Introduction:
Managing pain during pregnancy is challenging due to fetus safety and limited data on perinatal pain treatments. We report the first successful management of neuropathic back pain with high dose 8% Capsaicin patches (Qutenza) in a pregnant patient who failed other modalities.
Case Presentation:
A 34-year-old female with a history of migraines, childhood scoliosis status-post T5-L3 posterior spinal fusion complicated by post-laminectomy syndrome, presented with myofascial and neuropathic back pain. Her pain was refractory to oral agents, injections, field stimulator, and partial surgical revision. During patch treatments, she became pregnant.
Management And Outcomes:
A review of the patient's record and consent were obtained. Trial of an 8% capsaicin patch provided significant relief of her pain twice. Following OB/GYN consultation, she continued patch treatment, achieving significant relief without pregnancy complications into a subsequent pregnancy.
Conclusion:
Following further study, 8% capsaicin patches may be suitable alternatives for pain management during pregnancy.
