Central Pain Syndrome

Central Pain Syndrome

Central pain syndrome (CPS) is a neurological condition that results from damage to the central nervous system (CNS), at the level of the brain, the spinal cord, or both. This damage can be caused by a tumor, trauma, arteriovenous malformation, stroke, or surgery.

The pain from central pain syndrome is characterized as a combination of pain sensations. The most prominent is constant burning, mingled with sensations of cold, tingling and nerve proximity, similar to the sensation of a dental probe on an exposed nerve.

CPS pain can be moderate to severe in intensity, and often worsens with movement or with changes in temperature, particularly cold. The pain is steady and is usually described as a burning, aching, or cutting sensation. Some people have brief, intolerable bursts of sharp pain. CPS may develop months or even years after injury or damage to the CNS.

The treatment plan for central pain syndrome depends upon many factors, such as the severity of the disease, dysfunction and pain, the type and location of the pain, as well as patient’s age, ongoing medical conditions, and ability to tolerate other medical therapies. The doctor will take all of these factors into consideration when prescribing a treatment plan.

In general, the standard course of therapy for the pain associated with CPS will follow the chronic pain treatment continuum, and may include pain medications and specialized neurosurgery procedures. Neuromodulation may be an option if the CPS has a component of unresolved neuropathic pain.