Evaluation and diagnosis of neuropathic pain

Abstract

Background: Thorough evaluation and an accurate diagnosis of neuropathic pain are essential for effective treatment. The therapeutic approach and choice of medication for neuropathic pain are different from those for other kinds of nociceptive pain. Therefore, this study aimed to present the current evaluation and diagnostic methods for neuropathic pain. Current Concepts: Grading of the certainty of the presence of neuropathic pain according to the results of clinical history, neurological examination, and confirmatory tests improves the diagnosis of neuropathic pain. The Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs, Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire, Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions, and PainDETECT are mainly used for neuropathic pain screening. During physical examination, sensory nerve function tests are more critical than other nervous system examination items, including the test of the sense of touch with a cotton swab and the sense of vibration with a tuning fork. In addition, pain sensation using pins and temperature sensation using cold metal are tested to check for nociceptive pathway abnormalities. Diagnostic tests include imaging tests, nerve conduction tests, and other neurophysiological tests, such as quantitative sensory function tests, autonomic nerve function tests, and blood tests. Discussion and Conclusion: To diagnose neuropathic pain, physicians should first determine whether patient symptoms match the characteristics of neuropathic pain. If there is a possibility of neuropathic pain, physicians should perform a neurological screening examination and a proper diagnostic test to identify the cause of pain.