Continuum of somatosensory profiles in breast cancer survivors with and without pain, compared to healthy controls and patients with fibromyalgia

ConclusionBCS with persistent pain exert aberrations in peripheral processing of nociceptive signals, heightened facilitation of nociceptive signals, and higher psychosocial burden when compared to pain-free BCS, healthy controls, and patients with fibromyalgia.SignificanceThis study investigates the somatosensory function of breast cancer survivors with and without persistent pain using quantitative sensory testing and two control group (i.e., patients with fibromyalgia and healthy controls). Our results indicate somatosensory aberrations within the peripheral, but not central pathways in breast cancer survivors with persistent pain. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the somatosensory mechanisms underlying persistent pain, which may inform future interventions to prevent the development of persistent pain, and improve treatment modalities.

Source: European Journal of Pain - March 5, 2024 Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Vincent Haenen, Lore Dams, Mira Meeus, Nele Devoogdt, Bart Morlion, Amber De  Groote, An De Groef Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research