Neuropathic pain prevalence and risk factors in head and neck cancer survivors

Background Neuropathic pain (NP) is a debilitating symptom among head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors although few large studies report its prevalence and associated risk factors. Methods A cross-sectional survey assessing demographic, behavioral, and clinical risk factors for NP. NP was assessed using the Self-administered Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs pain scale (S-LANSS). Results Forty-five percent (227/505) reported having pain including 13.7% (69/505) who were positive for S-LANSS. Reported pain sites were in the regions of the head and oral cavity (46.2%) and neck and throat (41.5%). Despite a higher self-reported use of analgesic medication (NP+ = 41.2%; NP- = 27.4%; p = 0.020) and alternative pain therapies (NP+ = 19.1%; NP- = 8.4%; p = 0.009), severe pain was more prevalent among those with NP (N+ = 23.2%; NP- = 13.3%; p = 0.004). Adjusted for opioid medications, ethnicity/race, age, surgery, depression, and comorbidities were risk factors for NP. Conclusion NP remains prevalent in HNC survivors highlighting the importance of routine pain surveillance.

Automated summary

This study assessed the prevalence and associated risk factors of neuropathic pain (NP) among head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors through a cross-sectional survey. The results showed that NP remained prevalent in HNC survivors, and severe pain was more common among those with NP. Age, surgery, depression, and comorbidities were identified as risk factors for NP.