Breakthrough pain

Breakthrough pain (BTP) is too frequently underdiagnosed, and consequently undertreated, mainly due to lack of consensus on its diagnostic definition and identification. Pain persisting after pain therapy and BTP are distinct clinical entities that should be recognized, carefully diagnosed and specifically treated. The former requires appropriate up-titration of around the clock (ATC) pain therapy, whereas the latter requires rapid treatment when needed. Recognition and assessment of BTP promote tailoring of pharmacological/interventional therapy to the specific patient's needs, and notably increases the comfort level and quality of life for terminal sick patient.