Short Circuit: Understanding and Treating Neuropathic Pain.

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a significant role in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain and are expressed widely within the central nervous system on neurons, microglia, and astrocytes. TLRs detect both external (pathogen-associated molecular patterns) and internal (damage-associated molecular patterns) signals of inflammation. Chronic neuropathic pain has a prevalence of 6.9% and 10% of the general population. The diagnosis of neuropathic pain in the clinical setting commonly relies on a thorough history and physical examination. A multimodal and multidisciplinary approach is the gold standard of treatment, with medication management with pharmacotherapy as the primary treatment option.