Pharmacotherapy for cancer pain |
| |
| Authors: | G Oxberry, Stephen Simpson, Karen H |
| |
| Affiliation: | SpR in Palliative Medicine, Yorkshire Deanery, Leeds, LS14 6UH
Karen H Simpson
Consultant in Pain Management, Pain Management Department, L Ward, Seacroft Hospital, York Road, Leeds, LS14 6UH
Tel: 01132 063711 Fax: 01132 737564 E-mail: karen.simpson@dsl.pipex.com, (for correspondence) |
| |
| Abstract: | The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below. Key points Cancer pain management services must integrate withpalliative and primary care. Pain is common in cancer and usuallyoccurs in more than one site. Careful assessment and treatmentsaimed at the causes of the pain are essential. Optimal oralpharmacotherapy manages more than 75% of patients with cancerpain. If specific anti-cancer therapy, drugs, physical andpsychological treatments fail, then more invasive therapiesshould be considered early. | General principles of cancer pain management | Pain management must involve treating the cause of the painwhere possible, for example appropriate use of antibiotics forinfection, fixation for fractures, spinal stabilization. Wherethe cause of pain cannot be removed entirely, treatment shouldbe directed at modifying the disease process if possible, forexample palliative radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy, bisphosphonatesfor hypercalcaemia, surgery for bowel obstruction. Attentionto a patient's physical environment is important and simplemeasures, for example use of appropriate mattresses, orthotics,and mobility or bathing aids, . . . [Full Text of this Article] Analgesic pharmacotherapy | |
