Neuropathic pain prevalence and risk factors in head and neck cancer survivors

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Neuropathic pain prevalence and risk factors in head and neck cancer survivors via Head & Neck Abstract Background Neuropathic pain (NP) is a debilitating symptom among head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors although few large studies report its prevalence and associated risk factors. Methods A cross-sectional survey assessing demographic, behavioral, and clinical risk factors for NP. NP was assessed using the Self-administered Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs pain scale (S-LANSS). Results Forty-five percent (227/505) reported having pain including 13.7% (69/505) who were positive for S-LANSS. Reported pain sites were in the regions of the head and oral cavity (46.2%) and neck and throat (41.5%). Despite a higher self-reported use of analgesic medication (NP+ = 41.2%; NP− = 27.4%; p = 0.020) and alternative pain therapies (NP+ = 19.1%; NP− = 8.4%; p = 0.009), severe pain was more prevalent among those with NP (N+ = 23.2%; NP− = 13.3%; p = 0.004). Adjusted for opioid medications, ethnicity/race, age, surgery, depression, and comorbidities were risk factors for NP. Conclusion NP remains prevalent in HNC survivors highlighting the importance of routine pain surveillance. View on Web

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