Neurophysiologic approach to pruritus and pain in cancer patients.

Itch and pain, like other sensations, serve as physiological self-protective mechanisms. However, in many clinical conditions, unrelieved itch and pain have potentially devastating effects on body functions. Thus, these two sensations present maladaptive phenomena. In this review, we present the neurophysiologic mechanisms of pruritus and pain, including their mutual interactions, but the accent is on causes, consequences and assessment of pruritus and pain in cancer patients. Understanding the mechanisms of pain and itch may optimize pain control in cancer patients amd enhance their quality of life.