Un nouveau score de suivi de l'intensité des syndromes douloureux post-mastectomie (SDPM)

Two main types of chronic pain can occur after breast cancer surgery: phantom breast pain and more frequently, post-mastectomy pain syndrome (also called post-axillary dissection pain syndrome [PMPS]). Slowly evolving and difficult to resolve, PMPS is a neuropathological pain syndrome that requires interdisciplinary care and close monitoring. A score based on seven items was constructed and tested by a specialized team to quantify PMPS intensity (or severity). There are three interrogation items, one clinical examination item and three repercussion items (sleep, mood and quality of life). Overall, this score allows us both to quantify the global intensity experienced by patients and to monitor treatment efficacy objectively throughout the duration of follow up. PMPS can thus be categorised according to four grades of severity: light, moderate, severe and intense. This tool, easy to use and reproducible, is particularly useful for evaluating the efficacy of the care offered.