Mayo Clinic proceedings
-
Mayo Clinic proceedings · Apr 2006
ReviewConsensus guidelines: treatment planning and options. Diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.
Despite the number of patients affected by diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP), little consensus exists about the pathophysiology, best diagnostic tools, and primary treatment choices. Theories about the causes of DPNP are inextricably linked with the causes of diabetic neuropathles, yet most patients with such neuropathies do not experience pain. The factors that differentiate patients with pain from those without remain unknown and are the subject of much research. ⋯ Two agents, duloxetine and pregabalin, are formally approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of DPNP. In addition, several other agents, including the tricyclic class of antidepressants, have been effective in clinical trials. Ultimately, treatment choice must also Include consideration of adverse effects, individual patient factors such as comorbidities, and often cost.
-
Mayo Clinic proceedings · Apr 2006
ReviewDiabetic peripheral neuropathic pain: clinical and quality-of-life issues.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is estimated to be present in 50% of people living with diabetes mellitus (DM). Comorbidities of DM, such as macrovascular and microvascular changes, also Interact with DPN and affect its course. ⋯ Despite the number of patients affected by DPN pain, little consensus exists about the pathophysiology, best diagnostic tools, and primary treatment choices. This article reviews the current knowledge about and presents recommendations for diagnostic assessment of DPN pain based on a review of the literature.
-
Three case reports in this article illustrate the diagnostic methods used and the treatment course encountered for many patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). Each case addresses an aspect of DPNP: pain that appears to be refractory to initial therapy, DPNP occurring with other medical conditions, and nondiabetlc neuropathy occurring in patients with diabetes mellitus. Together, these cases bring clarity to the confusing clinical experience for patients who have decreased sensation in combination with burning pain, and they apply the consensus guidelines for DPNP. Recently approved medications by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of DPNP offer hope for many patients whose pain was thought to be refractory to treatment.