Pathophysiologic mechanisms of pain in animals A review

Abstract

The sense of pain is of practical significance in human and veterinary medicine. Its management and prevention constitute integral and fundamental parts of quality and compassionate care of patients. In order to recognise, assess, prevent and treat pain, an understanding of its pathway and the pathophysiologic mechanisms is necessary. This review discusses definitions of pain, its classification, description, pathophysiologic mechanisms, neuro-transmission and evaluation of pain as well as physiological responses to pain, with special reference to domestic animals. It is concluded that adequate understanding of pathophysiologic mechanisms of pain and the physiologic responses of animals to pain may aid its efficient management.