Cancer-related Breakthrough Pain

This new edition in the Oxford Pain Management Library includes an extensive evaluation of opioids, non-opioid drugs, and non-pharmacological interventions for cancer-related breakthrough pain. This volume is a concise but rich resource for consultants, GPs, and specialist nurses interested in pain management.

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Malignant episodic (or 'breakthrough') pain is a common feature of cancer pain that can have a negative impact on quality of life for both the patient and carer. It is characterized by a periodic increase in pain over background cancer pain and can be both severe in intensity and rapid in onset. Some patients who experience breakthrough pain are unresponsive to treatment and can pose a clinical challenge for physicians.

This volume contains chapters detailing strategies for the assessment, management and treatment of breakthrough pain. The use of opioids for the treatment of breakthrough pain is thoroughly explored, with material covering oral, nasal and other routes for opioid administration. Furthermore, the book includes chapters on non-opioid pharmacological treatments, as well as non-pharmacological interventions.

New additions to the second edition include a revised chapter on the general management of breakthrough pain and an up-to-date section on the latest data on intranasal fentanyl products. These updates ensure that Cancer-related Breakthrough Pain continues to be an invaluable resource for specialists and trainees in the field of pain management, as well as being a quick reference guide for GPs, specialist nurses, and other medical professionals.