Diagnóstico: pautas diagnósticas y la adecuada gestión del dolor basal y del dolor irruptivo

Until a few years ago, cancer pain was considered a unique clinical entity. However, recent studies have allowed a distinction to be made between background and breakthrough pain. These types of pain clearly differ in their form of onset, intensity and duration, leading to specific management for each. Adequate assessment of the characteristics of the pain and its causes allows correct diagnosis and optimal treatment. Because of the lack of consensus on the definition of breakthrough pain, it is difficult to estimate its true prevalence. Breakthrough pain has been described in 33%-95% of patients with chronic cancer pain. This type of pain impairs quality of life and it is therefore essential that health professionals are well versed in its correct identification and treatment.