TCD

A pathophysiological chain reaction at the origin of neurogenic pain. It consists of (1) a reduction of excitatory inputs onto thalamic cells, which results in cell membrane hyperpolarization; (2) the production of low-threshold calcium spike bursts by deinactivation of calcium T-channels, discharging at low (theta) frequency; (3) a progressive increase of the number of thalamocortical modules discharging at theta frequency; and (4) a cortical high-frequency activation through asymmetric corticocortical inhibition. These events have been documented by thalamic and cortical recordings in patients suffering from peripheral and central neurogenic pain.

 Thalamotomy for Human Pain Relief

 Thalamus, Dynamics of Nociception