Bone Pain and Muscle Weakness in Cancer Patients

Daniel P. Milgrom, Neha L. Lad, Leonidas G. Koniaris, Teresa A. Zimmers

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose of Review: In this article, we will discuss the current understanding of bone pain and muscle weakness in cancer patients. We will describe the underlying physiology and mechanisms of cancer-induced bone pain (CIBP) and cancer-induced muscle wasting (CIMW), as well as current methods of diagnosis and treatment. We will discuss future therapies and research directions to help patients with these problems. Recent Findings: There are several pharmacologic therapies that are currently in preclinical and clinical testing that appear to be promising adjuncts to current CIBP and CIMW therapies. Such therapies include resiniferitoxin, which is a targeted inhibitor of noceciptive nerve fibers, and selective androgen receptor modulators, which show promise in increasing lean mass. Summary: CIBP and CIMW are significant causes of morbidity in affected patients. Current management is mostly palliative; however, targeted therapies are poised to revolutionize how these problems are treated.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)76-87
Number of pages12
JournalCurrent Osteoporosis Reports
Volume15
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Apr 2017
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Bone metastasis
  • Cachexia
  • Cancer-induced bone pain
  • Muscle weakness

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