Severe transient burning pain after intrathecal steroid injection for treatment of postherpetic neuralgia: two cases report

ABSTRACT

Until now, we do not have a definitive treatment for intractable postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). But, there is relatively strong evidence for the efficacy of intrathecal methylprednisolone injection in the treatment of intractable PHN. In spite of the effectiveness, many clinicians hesitate to use intrathecal steroids due to adverse effects such as adhesive arachnoiditis. We experienced two cases of temporary severe burning pain after intrathecal steroid injection for treatment of PHN. On the next day, the patients did not have any burning pain, and they were discharged with decreased pain associated with PHN.