Neuropathic pain in children: Special considerations

Mayo Clin Proc. 2010 Mar;85(3 Suppl):S33-41. doi: 10.4065/mcp.2009.0647.

Abstract

Neuropathic pain is relatively uncommon in children. Although some syndromes closely resemble those found in adults, the incidence and course of the condition can vary substantially in children, depending on developmental status and contextual factors. There are some neuropathic pain syndromes that are rare and relatively unique to the pediatric population. This article discusses the array of neuropathic pain conditions in children and available treatment strategies. Data are limited by small numbers and few randomized controlled trials. Research and clinical implications are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics / administration & dosage
  • Analgesics / adverse effects
  • Analgesics / therapeutic use*
  • Analgesics, Opioid / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / adverse effects
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Child Health Services / organization & administration
  • Child Welfare
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndromes / complications
  • Diabetic Neuropathies / complications
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Neuralgia / classification
  • Neuralgia / drug therapy*
  • Neuralgia / etiology*
  • Neuralgia, Postherpetic / complications
  • Pain / drug therapy
  • Pain / etiology
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / complications
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

Substances

  • Analgesics
  • Analgesics, Opioid
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal