Who Is the Specialist for Pudendal Neuralgia Diagnosis?
The diagnosis and treatment of pudendal nerve neuropathy require a multidisciplinary team. Let’s review the key professionals.
Diagnosis of Pudendal Neuropathy
The diagnosis is essentially clinical, based on:
- Detailed symptom evaluation (pain, burning, shocks, heaviness)
- Exclusion of other causes with targeted tests
Involved Specialists
Urologist
Specialist in urinary and male genital systems, involved when urinary symptoms or genital pain are present.
Neurologist
Assesses nerve function with neurophysiological tests to confirm neuropathy.
Gynecologist
Essential for women with vulvar or vaginal pain; rules out other gynecological conditions.
Pain Specialist
Manages chronic pain with specific medications (tricyclics, antiepileptics, analgesics).
Proctologist
Investigates rectal or anal pain and excludes colon and rectum pathologies.
Physiatrist
Develops pelvic floor rehabilitation programs, including manual and osteopathic techniques.
Treatment Options for Pudendal Neuropathy
- Pharmacotherapy: amitriptyline, gabapentin, pregabalin
- Physical Therapy: muscle relaxation, targeted physiotherapy
- Anesthetic Injections: temporary relief with local injections
- Surgery: decompression in rare refractory cases
- Osteopathy: specific manipulations to release myofascial tensions
Conclusion
A multidisciplinary approach is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of pudendal neuralgia.
Bibliography
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- Torrino Medica. Quali antidepressivi sono efficaci nel trattamento del dolore neuropatico?
- Manuali MSD. Farmaci per il dolore neuropatico.
- Pharmastar. Dolore neuropatico: una review italiana spiega i farmaci da utilizzare.
- Attal N, Cruccu G, Haanpää M, et al. EFNS guidelines on pharmacological treatment of neuropathic pain.
- Dworkin RH, O’Connor AB, Backonja M, et al. Pharmacologic management of neuropathic pain.
- Finnerup NB, et al. Algorithm for neuropathic pain treatment.
- Jensen TS, et al. The clinical picture of neuropathic pain.
- Moulin DE, et al. Pharmacological management of chronic neuropathic pain.
