Der Schmerz
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Subcutaneous peripheral nerve field stimulation (sPNFS) is an established procedure for the treatment of chronic localized neuropathic pain of peripheral origin. The treatment of nummular headache primarily focuses on conservative methods with limited prospects of success. The role of sPNFS in the treatment of nummular headache has not been investigated as yet. ⋯ sPNFS stimulates free subcutaneous nerves and transmits a pleasant form of paraesthesia in the area of pain. If regular conservative therapy has already been exhausted, then sPNFS might be an effective new option in the treatment of nummular headache. sPNFS is a minimally invasive and low-risk procedure. However, the high treatment cost and restrictions regarding fitness to undergo MRI are points of criticism. Further studies are needed to define its potential and role in the treatment of nummular headache.
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Review
[Anticancer therapy for symptom relief? : A systematic review of clinical trials in oncology].
When patients suffer from incurable cancer, drug-based, systemic anticancer therapy is usually used with the aim of longer survival, while minimizing toxicity and ensuring a tolerable quality of life. It is unclear to what extent and with what degree of success systemic tumor therapy can be used to specifically improve pre-existing pain and an already compromised quality of life (QoL). ⋯ Only a few studies focused primarily on the improvement of parameters related to quality of life-although this is the primary therapeutic goal for many patients suffering from incurable and advanced cancer. The study results encourage regular inclusion of symptom- and QoL-related data in clinical studies and to more explicitly address the potential of systemic anticancer therapy in relieving pain and other symptoms, thereby supporting the goals of palliative care.