People living with HIV and the emerging field of chronic pain—what is known about epidemiology, etiology, and management

Purpose of Review: Chronic pain is common in people living with HIV (PLWH). It causes significant disability and poor HIV outcomes. Despite this, little is understood about its etiology and management. Recent Findings: Recent studies suggest that chronic pain in PLWH is caused by inflammation that persists despite viral load suppression. This coupled with central sensitization and psychosocial factors leads to chronic pain that is difficult to manage. PLWH with chronic pain often feel that their pain is incompletely treated, and yet there are few evidence-based options for the management of chronic pain in PLWH. Recent studies suggest that an approach pairing pharmacotherapy and nonpharmacologic therapy may address the complex nature of chronic in PLWH. Summary: Chronic pain in PLWH is common yet poorly understood. Further research is needed in order to better understand the etiology of chronic pain and its optimal management.