Neuromodulation : journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
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There is increasing literature evidence both clinically and experimentally on the existence of potent, adaptive interactions between the central and peripheral aspects of the neuroimmune system in the genesis and maintenance of chronic neuropathic extremity pain and nociceptive back pain. The neuroinflammatory pathways are modulated by the interaction of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, which are released by peripheral immune system-derived cell species (macrophages and leukocytes). This review examines the possible impact of spinal and peripheral neurostimulation on the inflammatory response in the context of acute and chronic pain pathologies of different origin. ⋯ These preliminary findings may have important implications on the potential applications of neurostimulation as an anti-inflammatory therapy and the role of molecular profiling as a preimplant screening modality and post-implant outcome validation. Thus, future targeted clinical and experimental research is highly warranted in this particular novel field of neuromodulation.