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 cancier-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 currenly in pre-clinical 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 nociptive nerve fibers, and selective androgen receptor modulators, which show promise in increasing lean mass.
Summary
CIBP and CIMW are a significant causes of morbidity in affected patients. Current management is mostly palliative; however, targeted therapies are poised to revolutionize how these problems are treated.