Pain
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Recordings were made from dorsal horn neurones in the spinal cord and trigeminal nucleus caudalis of intact anaesthetized rats. These rats had been rendered polyarthritic by s.c. injection of Mycobacterium butyricum suspended in oil into the base of the tail. The experiments were carried out during the acute phase of the illness (3-4 weeks post inoculation) during which hyperalgesia occurred. ⋯ The activity of non-noxious neurones was never modified by any heterotopically applied stimuli. By contrast, all convergent neurones were inhibited by heterotopic stimuli, noxious (52 degrees C, pinch) or non-noxious (light and mild pressure), applied to inflamed areas. While the inhibition triggered by noxious stimuli was reminiscent of that observed in healthy rats, the inhibition triggered by non-noxious mechanical stimuli was related to the inflammatory state of the part of the body stimulated, the most sensitive areas being the hind paws.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
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Epidural administration of opiates as a long-term treatment of cancer pain, even for out-patients, is now well established. Most reports describe intermittent injections given several times a day, which may have technical and personal disadvantages. ⋯ This report describes 16 patients who were treated with epidural opiates delivered by plastic infusion pumps. Pain relief was effective, the equipment was inexpensive and home treatment was easily accomplished.