title: [Cancer pain assessment].
abstract: Adequate assessment is a necessary precondition for effective pain management. The objectives of cancer pain assessment include: (1) the accurate characterization of the pain, including the pain syndrome and inferred pathophysiology; and (2) the evaluation of the impact of the pain and the role it plays in the overall suffering of the patient. Because patient's self-report is the primary source of information for the measurement of pain, assessment is predicated on the establishment of a trusting relationship with the patient in which the clinician emphasizes the relief of pain and suffering, and encourages open communication about symptoms. Physical examination, including neurological evaluation, is necessary to identify the underlying aetiology of the pain problem, and clarify the extent of the underlying disease. Assessment is an ongoing and dynamic process that includes evaluation of presenting problems, elucidation of pain syndromes and pathophysiology, and formulation of a comprehensive plan for continuing care.
authors.affiliation: Department of Palliative Care, Palliative Care Team and Palliative Care Unit, Saitama Cancer Center, Saitama 362-0806.
authors.forename: Kinomi
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Yomiya
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000503:physiopathology*; D010146:Pain / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010147:Pain Measurement