The Human Pain System

Pain is a subject of significant scientific and clinical interest. This has resulted both from realistic rodent models, and the publication of imaging, psychological and pharmacological studies in humans. Investigators studying rodents refer to anatomical and physiological studies in non-human primates to make their results relevant to humans. Psychophysical and pharmacological studies in humans are interpreted in terms of anatomical and physiological studies in animals; primarily evidence from rodents and cats. There are significant differences in pain mechanisms between these species and primates. Over 20 years of imaging studies have demonstrated the activation of human cortical and subcortical structures in response to painful stimuli. Interpretation of these results relies upon an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of these structures in primates. Jones, Lenz, Casey and Willis review the anatomy and physiology of nociception in monkeys and humans, and provide a firm basis for interpreting studies in humans.

Spis treści:
Foreword
1. Historical review of studies of pain in primates
2. Nociceptors, spinal pathways, brainstem and forebrain terminations
3. Physiology of cells of origin of spinal and brainstem pathways
4. Physiology of forebrain pain-related structures
5. Imaging of sensory and affective components of acute pain
6. Pain modulatory systems including ascending and descending connections
7. Peripheral and central manifestations and mechanisms of chronic pain and sensitization
8. Imaging of sensory and affective components of chronic pain and sensitization
9. Functional implications of spinal and forebrain procedures for the treatment of chronic pain
Index.