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Abstract
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Background and Aims Neuropathic pain (NP) arises from lesions or diseases affecting the somatosensory system, with increased neuronal activation and ectopic discharges. In pediatric oncology, may be due to chemotherapeutic agents, as structural, post-surgical lesions, phantom limb syndrome, autoimmune and degenerative neuropathic diseases. Diagnosis in children can be difficult due to the variety of symptoms and requires multiple therapeutic strategies for management. Treatment of NP in children follows similar principles to those in adults, but doses are usually moderate and rarely increased to the maximum for maximum effectiveness.
Methods An independent review was carried out by the authors in the databases with a subsequent meeting, where the articles that were found were presented and a consensus was reached on the articles to be included. The objective of this article is to conduct a narrative review of the existing literature on the treatment of cancer-related neuropathic pain in pediatric population.
Results Thorough evaluation and effective pain control play pivotal roles in enhancing the well-being and health outcomes of this poblation. If initial treatments prove ineffective, interventional therapies should be accessible as alternative options. Different scientific societies advocate for employing a multimodal approach encompassing pharmacological, physical, and psychotherapeutic interventions, tailored to individual needs. The overarching objective should be to enhance the quality of life for the patient.
The specific mechanisms of neurotoxicity, epidemiological data and clinical features of neuropathy of the main CIPN-related chemotherapeutic agents are presented in this figure
Conclusions Neuropathic pain is frequently seen in pediatric cancer patients, but is often overlooked and inadequately treated with ineffective treatments. Treatment of neuropathic pain in this population involves a comprehensive evaluation along with the use of pharmacologic, interventional, and nonpharmacologic approaches.