title: Chronic pain and neuropsychological functioning.
abstract: This review article examines the effect of chronic pain on neuropsychological functioning. Primary attention is given to studies that include patient groups without a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or neurologic disorders. Numerous studies were identified that demonstrate neuropsychological impairment in patients with chronic pain, particularly on measures assessing attentional capacity, processing speed, and psychomotor speed. Despite suggestive findings, further studies are needed to clarify the variables that mediate the impact of pain on neuropsychological functioning and the unique role of various symptoms often associated with chronic pain.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry, Medical College of Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298-0268, USA.
authors.forename: R P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Hart
authors.forename: M F
authors.initials: MF
authors.lastname: Martelli
authors.forename: N D
authors.initials: ND
authors.lastname: Zasler
mesh_terms: D001288:Attention; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003071:Cognition; D006801:Humans; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological