Genetics of musculoskeletal (TMD) and neuropathic orofacial pain: a narrative review

Abstract

Background and Objective: Orofacial pain is a debilitating condition affecting individuals' quality of life. Differences in pain perception and analgesia have been reported between individuals, suggesting genetics as a contributing factor. This genetic component of orofacial pain can be best defined as complex due to contributions from multiple genes, which interact with each other and additional environmental factors.The objective of this review was to provide a summary of the progress made in the field of musculoskeletal [temporomandibular disorders (TMD)] and neuropathic orofacial pain genetics.Methods: PubMed database was searched using the following Medical Subject Headings: (("Facial Pain/genetics"[Mesh]) OR ("Trigeminal Neuralgia/genetics"[Mesh]) OR ("Trigeminal Nerve Diseases/ genetics"[Mesh]) OR ("Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/genetics"[Mesh])). The search was limited to publications in English. No time-frame restriction was used.