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HIV Neuropathy—a Review of Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Pain

  • Neuropathic Pain (A Abd-Elsayed, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Pain and Headache Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

This article is a systematic review of data from 2018 to 2020 regarding information from publications on epidemiologic, diagnostic, and therapeutic advancements in human immunodeficiency virus–associated peripheral neuropathy.

Recent Findings

The epidemiology/pathology of HIV neuropathy is discussed. Diagnostics includes skin wrinkling-eutectic mixture of local anesthetic test and neurologic examinations. Therapeutic interventions include pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic management as well as self-management strategies.

Summary

Peripheral neuropathy continues to affect the lives of persons living with HIV. First-line treatment with pregabalin or gabapentin for HIV neuropathic pain has limited data on adequate response. Exercise and self-management strategies may provide benefit in pain reduction. Continuing research on risk factors and biomarkers for HIV-related peripheral neuropathy will be critical for future diagnostic and therapeutic agents.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas, USA

    Kaitlyn E. Egan

  2. Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas, USA

    Gregory M. Caldwell & Maxim S. Eckmann

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Correspondence to Kaitlyn E. Egan.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Neuropathic Pain

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Egan, K.E., Caldwell, G.M. & Eckmann, M.S. HIV Neuropathy—a Review of Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Pain. Curr Pain Headache Rep 25, 55 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-021-00971-2

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