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Published in: Current HIV/AIDS Reports 5/2021

01-10-2021 | Neuropathic Pain | Complications of HIV and Antiretroviral Therapy (GA McComsey, Section Editor)

People living with HIV and the emerging field of chronic pain—what is known about epidemiology, etiology, and management

Author: Deepika E. Slawek

Published in: Current HIV/AIDS Reports | Issue 5/2021

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Chronic pain is common in people living with HIV (PLWH). It causes significant disability and poor HIV outcomes. Despite this, little is understood about its etiology and management.

Recent Findings

Recent studies suggest that chronic pain in PLWH is caused by inflammation that persists despite viral load suppression. This coupled with central sensitization and psychosocial factors leads to chronic pain that is difficult to manage. PLWH with chronic pain often feel that their pain is incompletely treated, and yet there are few evidence-based options for the management of chronic pain in PLWH. Recent studies suggest that an approach pairing pharmacotherapy and nonpharmacologic therapy may address the complex nature of chronic in PLWH.

Summary

Chronic pain in PLWH is common yet poorly understood. Further research is needed in order to better understand the etiology of chronic pain and its optimal management.
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Metadata
Title
People living with HIV and the emerging field of chronic pain—what is known about epidemiology, etiology, and management
Author
Deepika E. Slawek
Publication date
01-10-2021
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current HIV/AIDS Reports / Issue 5/2021
Print ISSN: 1548-3568
Electronic ISSN: 1548-3576
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-021-00563-0

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