Review Article | | Peer-Reviewed

A Chinese Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Cancer-related Pain

Received: 24 June 2025     Accepted: 7 July 2025     Published: 28 July 2025
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Abstract

Background: Chronic cancer-related pain can seriously damage physical and mental health of cancer patients. Eliminating cancer pain is basic right of cancer patients, controlling and eliminating cancer pain is the responsibility of medical staff. Objective: To further enhance the diagnosis and treatment capabilities for chronic cancer-related pain management, the Chinese Clinical Guideline for Chronic Cancer-Related Pain convened an expert panel to develop the guideline. Main ideas: Based on high quality evidence of medical researches on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cancer-related pain published domestically and internationally in the past 10 years, the expert group has formed recommendations for common treatment methods through rigorous argumentation and expert voting, to provide references for standardized diagnosis and treatment of chronic cancer-related pain. This guideline adopts GRADE methodology to evaluate the level of evidence and strength of recommendation for the treatments of chronic cancer-related pain. This guideline gives treatment recommendations for different types of chronic cancer-related pain in International Classification of Diseases-11, as well as for breakthrough cancer pain. Conclusion: Although there are many treatments to relieve chronic cancer-related pain, it is still a global medical challenge. According to the characteristics of cancer-related pain, stepped and personalized treatment is the key to relieve pain.

Published in International Journal of Pain Research (Volume 1, Issue 1)
DOI 10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12
Page(s) 10-33
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Chronic Cancer-related Pain, Cancer Pain, Guideline

1. Introduction
Chronic cancer-related pain (CCRP) seriously endangers patients' physical and mental health, accelerates disease progression, impairs physiological function, and may even force the interruption of anti-tumor therapy, ultimately leading to shortened survival . Compared to death, cancer patients fear cancer pain more. Relief from CCRP is a legitimate demand and fundamental right for patients, while controlling and eliminating it is the duty of healthcare professionals. Although academic organizations, institutions, and expert groups worldwide have published numerous principles, standards, expert consensus reports, and clinical guidelines for managing CCRP, a clinical diagnosis and treatment guideline for CCRP fully based on the International Classification of Diseases-11 (ICD-11) has yet to be released. To further enhance the diagnosis and treatment capabilities for CCRP and meet clinical needs, we have organized a panel of domestic experts in pain medicine to develop the Chinese Clinical Guideline for Chronic Cancer-Related Pain. It should be noted that, due to space limitations, this guideline cannot cover every detailed aspect of CCRP diagnosis and treatment.
2. Guideline Development Methodology
The literature search period was from January 2014 to May 2024. The search terms included cancer pain, chronic cancer-related pain, chronic post-cancer treatment pain, visceral cancer pain, bone cancer pain, neuropathic cancer pain, post-cancer medicine pain, post-radiotherapy pain, post cancer surgery pain, breakthrough cancer pain, etc. Data sourced from Wanfang, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), PubMed, and Cochrane Library. Selected high-grade evidence literature such as systematic review, meta-analysis, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), expert consensus, and clinical guidelines as the basis. After multiple rounds of discussion and online voting using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology (Table 1) and consensus conference method, this guideline was ultimately developed .
Table 1. GRADE System Evidence Quality and Recommendation Strength.

Level

Description

Evidence Quality

High (A)

We are very confident that the true effect lies close to the estimate.

Moderate (B)

We are moderately confident in the effect estimate: The true effect is likely close to the estimate, but there is a possibility of substantial difference.

Low (C)

Our confidence in the effect estimate is limited: The true effect may be substantially different.

Very Low (D)

We have very little confidence in the effect estimate: The true effect is likely substantially different.

Recommendation Strength

Strong (1)

Most individuals in this situation would want the recommended course of action, and only a small proportion would not; most clinicians should adopt the intervention; >70% panel agreement.

Weak (2)

Most individuals would choose the recommended course, but many would not; clinicians should help patients make decisions consistent with values/preferences; 50–70% panel agreement.

No Recommendation (3)

Trade-offs uncertain; target population unclear; insufficient evidence; <50% panel agreement.

3. Overview of CCRP
3.1. Definition
CCRP refers to chronic pain caused either by the cancer itself or its metastases, as well as pain resulting from cancer treatments .
3.2. Epidemiology
CCRP can occur at any stage of cancer. Approximately 25.0% of newly diagnosed cancer patients, 75.0% of metastatic cancer patients, and 59.0% of patients currently undergoing anticancer treatment report pain. Notably, one-third of patients continue to experience pain even after completing curative treatment . Among patients with advanced cancer nearing the end of life, 66.0% have experienced pain, with 55.0% reporting moderate to severe pain .
3.3. Category
According to the causes of pain, CCRP is divided into chronic cancer pain (CCP) and chronic post-cancer treatment pain (CPCTP).
3.3.1. CCP
Including chronic visceral cancer pain (CVCP), chronic bone cancer pain (CBCP), chronic neuropathic cancer pain (CNCP), etc.
1) CVCP It refers to the chronic pain caused by the injury of internal organs in the head and neck or chest, abdomen and pelvic cavity by the primary tumor and tumor metastasis. For example, pain caused by liver metastasis, pancreatic tumor invasion of celiac plexus, and retrosternal pain caused by local progression of esophageal or lung tumor.
2) CBCP It refers to chronic pain caused by the destruction or damage of bone by primary tumor and tumor metastasis, and is the most common type of CCP. Because primary bone tumors are relatively rare, pain caused by metastasis of tumors from other parts to bone is the most common type of CBCP.
3) CNCP It refers to the chronic pain caused by the destruction or damage of the peripheral or central nervous system by the primary tumor or tumor metastasis. Chronic peripheral neuropathic cancer pain includes destruction of brachial plexus by primary or metastatic tumors in the chest, or injury of lumbosacral plexus by abdominal and pelvic tumors. Spinal cord compression (vertebral collapse caused by cancer bone metastasis) can lead to chronic central neuropathic cancer pain.
3.3.2. CPCTP
Including chronic post-cancer medicine pain (CPCMP), chronic post-radiotherapy pain (CPRP), chronic post-cancer surgery pain (CPCSP), etc.
1) CPCMP It refers to chronic pain caused by any anticancer drugs, including drugs used in systemic chemotherapy, hormone therapy and biological therapy. Chronic painful chemotherapy induced polyneuropathy (CIPN) is a diagnostic category of ICD-11. Among female breast cancer patients receiving hormone therapy, 45% were accompanied by chronic joint pain, which showed symmetrical joint pain, and the most common parts were wrists, hands, and knees. Chronic painful chemotherapy induced neuropathy (CPCIN) refers to chronic peripheral neuropathic pain caused by oral or intravenous chemotherapy for the treatment of primary tumor or tumor metastasis.
2) CPRP It refers to the chronic pain caused by the delayed damage of nerves, bones or soft tissues in the irradiation field when radiotherapy is performed on the primary tumor or metastatic tumor. The occurrence of this kind of pain can begin within a few months or years after the end of radiotherapy. The risk factors for the occurrence include the excessive total treatment dose, the excessive dose of each radiotherapy, and the combined use of surgery or chemotherapy.
3) CPCSP It refers to pain caused by cancer surgery or invasive operation (such as tissue biopsy or chest drainage tube insertion). It is particularly common after breast cancer surgery (pain after mastectomy) or lung cancer surgery (pain after thoracotomy).
4. Mechanisms of CCRP
The mechanism of CCRP is complex and unique, involving the interaction between tumor tissue, normal tissue, tumor microenvironment, nervous system and immune system .
4.1. Mechanisms of Cancer-related Nociceptive Pain
During tumorigenesis and progression, tumor infiltration, compression, and metastasis lead to the release of inflammatory mediators including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), bradykinin, substance P, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). These mediators directly interact with receptors or ion channels on peripheral sensory nerves innervating cancerous tissues, thereby inducing pain . Cancer-related bone pain, particularly associated with osteolytic metastases or bone destruction, is mediated by excessive secretion of inflammatory factors during osteoclastic activity. These biochemical agents stimulate sensitive nerve fibers, resulting in severe pain .
4.2. Mechanisms of Cancer-related Neuropathic Pain
Malignant involvement of the somatosensory nervous system represents the primary pathogenic mechanism. Tumor cells may directly infiltrate peripheral nerves or induce immune-mediated neural invasion, while mass compression, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical interventions can all contribute to neural injury. These pathological processes may disrupt axonal transport, alter ion channel and receptor activity, and cause neuronal damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Such changes ultimately lead to peripheral and central nervous system sensitization, resulting in neuropathic pain .
4.3. Other Mechanisms
Psychological and stress-related mechanisms also play significant roles in CCRP pathogenesis. Cancer-related visceral pain frequently induces alterations in patients' psychological status and increased stress levels, which may further exacerbate pain perception through neuroendocrine pathways and central sensitization .
5. Clinical Features of CCRP
1) Persistent chronic pain lasting throughout the disease course, characterized by nocturnal pain and pain at rest.
2) Frequent episodes of severe, intolerable breakthrough pain.
3) Manifests as “total pain” - a multidimensional experience encompassing: somatic components, psychological distress, spiritual suffering, social dimensions.
6. Diagnostic Workup
6.1. Laboratory Test
Standard laboratory workup should encompass complete blood count (CBC), assessment of liver and renal functions, electrolyte measurements, coagulation studies, and tumor marker testing.
6.2. Imaging Examinations
6.2.1. X-ray
X-ray examination provides high spatial resolution but limited density resolution, making it suitable for imaging bones and air-containing tissues, primarily used to identify fractures and similar conditions.
6.2.2. Computed Tomography (CT)
CT clearly visualizes most human tissues and organs, including bones. Contrast-enhanced CT further improves tissue density differentiation and resolution.
6.2.3. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI offers superior soft tissue contrast and is particularly valuable for evaluating neural structures, commonly employed to detect spinal canal involvement.
6.2.4. Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
PET represents a highly efficient, safe, and non-invasive modality that ensures diagnostic accuracy, demonstrating particular advantages in cases of suspected multiple metastases.
6.2.5. Single-photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT/ECT)
SPECT/ECT not only displays morphological structures of organs or lesions but also provides functional and metabolic information, exhibiting high sensitivity for detecting metastatic bone tumors.
6.2.6. Ultrasonography
Ultrasonography enables observation of fine visceral structures and functional status while permitting real-time evaluation of muscle and tendon movement, playing a crucial role in diagnosing abdominal, pelvic, and extremity soft tissue disorders.
6.2.7. Medical Infrared Thermography
Medical infrared thermography utilizes sensitive detection of surface temperature variations through bilateral comparative analysis, allowing early identification of pathologies that alter surface temperature patterns, including vascular dysfunction, inflammatory processes, and neoplastic conditions.
7. Diagnostic Criteria and Pain Assessment
7.1. Diagnostic Criteria
1) Documented history of malignancy with confirmed pathological diagnosis.
2) In cases lacking definitive pathological confirmation, the presence of characteristic cancer manifestations supported by imaging studies and laboratory findings is required.
3) Pain etiology must be directly attributable to either tumor progression/metastasis or antineoplastic therapies.
7.2. Pain Assessment
Pain assessment is the premise of obtaining reasonable and effective treatment for CCRP.
7.2.1. Assessment Principles
1) Initial assessment: Healthcare providers must screen and assess pain during the first clinical encounter with cancer patients.
2) Routine assessment: Perform pain evaluation at least once daily.
3) Quantitative assessment: Use pain intensity scales to quantify and document patient-reported pain levels.
4) Comprehensive assessment: Evaluate pain type, temporal pattern, triggering factors, and treatment response.
5) Dynamic assessment: Conduct continuous pain monitoring across all care settings including outpatient visits, hospitalization, post-discharge, and before/after pain management interventions.
7.2.2. Assessment Tools
Appropriate pain intensity scales should be selected based on individual patient conditions to record pain levels, with psychological assessment performed when necessary. Commonly used pain assessment tools include :
1) Numerical Rating Scale (NRS)
2) Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)
3) Faces Pain Scale (FPS)
4) Brief Pain Inventory (BPI)
5) Distress Thermometer (DT)
6) Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)
7) Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7)
8. Treatments
8.1. Principles of Treatment
CCRP has complex pathogenesis and requires individualized treatment based on pain etiology, characteristics, and patient's physical condition . The three-step analgesic ladder proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) remains the primary approach for cancer pain management . Standardized pain assessment, standardized treatment , and palliative care can effectively relieve pain and improve quality of life.
8.2. Goals of Treatment
The "5A" goals of cancer pain management :
1) Analgesia: Optimize pain relief.
2) Activities: Optimize daily activities (psychosocial function).
3) Adverse effects: Minimize adverse events.
4) Aberrant behavior: Monitor abnormal medication use.
5) Affect: Address the relationship between pain and mood.
8.3. Treatment Methods
The management of CCRP should prioritize etiological treatment, particularly antitumor therapy, followed by targeted individualized analgesic approaches including general therapy, pharmacotherapy, physical therapy, traditional Chinese medicine, psychotherapy, digital healthcare, and minimally invasive interventions .
Table 2. Evidence Quality and Recommendation Strength for General Therapies.

Intervention

Evidence Level

Recommendation Strength

Health education

A

1

Self-management

A

1

8.3.1. General Treatment
General treatment primarily includes health education and self-management (Table 2).
1) Health Education: Health education for patients and their families should cover treatment goals, therapeutic methods, and potential adverse effects. This education helps develop patients' self-control abilities, improves treatment compliance, significantly reduces pain intensity and frequency, and enhances quality of life .
2) Self-Management: Cancer pain self-management refers to patients managing their own pain by integrating pain relief strategies into daily life . Effective pain management requires both professional guidance from healthcare providers and active patient participation in self-management.
8.3.2. Pharmacological Treatment
(i) Overview: Pharmacological treatment is the most important and commonly used approach for CCRP management. Standardized and effective drug therapy can alleviate 80-90% of CCRP cases. Potent opioids form the cornerstone of CCRP treatment, with morphine being the gold standard among strong opioids .
(ii) Medication categories for cancer pain management: The primary medications used for CCRP treatment include analgesics and adjuvant analgesic drugs.
Table 3. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for Analgesics.

Drug Class

Drug Name

CVCP

CNCP

CPCMP

CPRP

NSAIDs

Indomethacin

B2

B2

Diclofenac

B2

B2

Opioid-like agents

Tramadol

A2

Weak opioids

Codeine

A2

Strong opioids

Morphine

A1

Oxycodone

A1

Fentanyl

A1

Hydromorphone

A1

Buprenorphine

A2

Methadone

B2

B2

B2

Dezocine

B2

Combination Analgesia

Oxycodone/Naloxone Prolonged-Release Tablets

A1

Oxycodone/Acetaminophen Tablets

B2

Abbreviations: CVCP, Chronic Visceral Cancer Pain; CNCP, Chronic Neuropathic Cancer Pain; CPCMP, Chronic Post-Cancer Treatment Medication Pain; CPRP, Chronic Post-Radiotherapy Pain; NSAIDs, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs.
Analgesics (Table 3 ):
A. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Celecoxib, Ibuprofen, Indomethacin, Diclofenac, Dexketoprofen Trometamol .
B. Opioids: Morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl. morphine or oxycodone are first-line oral opioids for moderate-to-severe CCRP . Compared with oral opioids, transdermal fentanyl shows more advantages in treating moderate-to-severe CCRP , making transdermal administration the optimal choice for patients with stable opioid requirements . Fentanyl transdermal patches are preferred for: patients unable/unwilling to take oral medications; those with moderate-to-severe hepatic/renal dysfunction; malignant bowel obstruction; chronic/refractory constipation; intolerable nausea/vomiting from oral opioids; and those with poor oral medication compliance .
C. Biotoxins: cobra neurotoxin, tetrodotoxin , botulinum toxin . Chinese cobra neurotoxin has been developed into an analgesic for CCRP treatment .
Adjuvant analgesics (Table 4 ):
Table 4. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for Adjuvant analgesics.

Drug Class

Drug Name

CVCP

CNCP

CPCMP

CPRP

CPCSP

Calcium channel modulators

Gabapentin

A2

B2

Pregabalin

A1

A1

A1

A1

Tricyclic antidepressants

Amitriptyline

B2

B2

Doxepin

B2

B2

SNRIs

Duloxetine

A1

A1

Venlafaxine

A2

B2

Other

Lidocaine

B2

Capsaicin

B2

B2

Ketamine

B2

B2

Abbreviations: CVCP, Chronic Visceral Cancer Pain; CNCP, Chronic Neuropathic Cancer Pain; CPCMP, Chronic Post-Cancer Treatment Medication Pain; CPRP, Chronic Post-Radiotherapy Pain; NSAIDs, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs; CPCSP, Post-mastectomy/post-thoracotomy pain; SNRIs, Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
A. Calcium channel modulators: gabapentin, pregabalin.
B. Tricyclic antidepressants: amitriptyline, doxepin.
C. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): Duloxetine, Venlafaxine.
D. Other medications: lidocaine, capsaicin, ketamine, corticosteroids, tetrandrine, spleen polypeptide injection .
(iii) Opioid dose conversion, titration, common adverse effects and management, and usage principles.
Opioid dose conversion (Table 5)
Table 5. Opioid Dose Conversion Between Different Administration Routes.

Morphine (mg/day)

Fentanyl (μg/hour)

Oxycodone (mg/day)

Codeine (mg/day)

Intravenous/Subcutaneous/Epidural/Intrathecal

Oral

Parenteral

Patch

Intravenous/Subcutaneous

Oral

Intravenous/Subcutaneous

Oral

20

60

25

25

15

30

130

200

40

120

50

50

30

60

260

400

60

180

75

75

45

90

390

600

80

240

100

100

60

120

520

800

Opioid rotation refers to switching between different opioid medications or different formulations of the same opioid to achieve a balance between pain control and adverse effects. Opioid rotation can improve analgesic efficacy and patient satisfaction .
Principles of opioid dose titration:
A. The goal is to achieve effective analgesia rapidly and administer as-needed doses for breakthrough pain.
B. Titration should be simple and flexible, following the principle of combining short-acting drugs for titration with controlled/extended-release formulations to manage both baseline pain and breakthrough pain.
C. When rapid dose titration is required, fast-onset short-acting drugs are recommended, preferably via subcutaneous or intravenous routes.
D. Opioid titration is the optimal method to balance moderate-to-severe cancer pain relief with tolerable adverse effects, and rapid dose titration facilitates early pain control .
Common adverse effects of opioids and their management (Table 6 ).
Principles of opioid administration
Table 6. Common Adverse Effects of Opioids and Their Management.

Adverse Effect

Clinical Manifestations

Management Strategies

Nausea / Vomiting

These adverse effects are dose-dependent and self-limiting, typically becoming tolerable within 3-7 days of drug initiation.

Metoclopramide, promethazine, haloperidol, and chlorpromazine. Intravenous granisetron and ondansetron.

Constipation

Therapeutic agents include methylnaltrexone

, etc. Laxatives consist of lubricants (docusate sodium, senna, bisacodyl), bulk-forming agents (plant fiber), osmotic agents (lactulose), and stool softeners. Non-pharmacological methods are also effective, such as increased fluid intake and activity, and regular bowel habits.

Respiratory Depression

Dose-dependent, more likely with intravenous administration. Respiratory depression typically becomes tolerable within 5-7 days after initiating medication.

Arouse the patient, apply painful stimulation to induce respiration. Administer naloxone for antagonism.

Urinary Retention

Apply non-pharmacological methods, such as listening to running water, perineal heat compress, gentle bladder massage, acupuncture, etc. If ineffective, catheterization may be performed.

Pruritus

Antihistamines remain first-line treatment for pruritus, commonly used medications include diphenhydramine, promethazine, cyproheptadine, etc. Basic therapy involves enhanced skin care and wearing soft cotton undergarments.

Sedation / Somnolence

Dose reduction or switching to alternative opioids is required, and low-dose central nervous system stimulants may also be utilized for treatment.

A. The five fundamental principles of opioid therapy for cancer pain:
1) Non-invasive routes (oral, transdermal, or transmucosal administration).
2) Around-the-clock dosing.
3) By-the-ladder approach.
4) Individualized dosage.
5) Attention to therapeutic details.
B. Supplementary clinical principles:
1) Early intervention.
2) Alternative administration routes.
3) Opioid rotation.
4) Combination pharmacotherapy.
5) Three-step analgesic ladder for cancer pain management.
First step (mild pain):
Non-opioid analgesics (e.g., NSAIDs) are recommended. These medications exhibit a ceiling effect for analgesia.
Second step (moderate pain):
Weak opioids (e.g., codeine, tramadol), which may be combined with NSAIDs, are employed. Weak opioids also demonstrate a ceiling effect.
Third step (severe pain):
Strong opioids (e.g., morphine) without a ceiling effect are utilized, allowing for dose escalation as needed.
8.3.3. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy for CCRP primarily includes photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), low-level laser therapy (LLLT), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), scrambler therapy (ST), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), manual therapy (MT), exercise therapy, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS), and radionuclide therapy, all of which are widely used in CCRP treatment (Table 7 ).
Table 7. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for Physical therapy.

Treatment

CVCP

CNCP

CPCMP

CPRP

CPCSP

PBMT

A2

LLLT

B2

A2

TENS

A2

B2

ST

B2

tDCS

B2

MT

B2

B2

A2

A2

Exercise Therapy

B2

SBRT

B2

A1

Radionuclide Therapy

A2

MRgFUS

B2

Abbreviations: CVCP, Chronic Visceral Cancer Pain; CNCP, Chronic Neuropathic Cancer Pain; CPCMP, Chronic Post-Cancer Treatment Medication Pain; CPRP, Chronic Post-Radiotherapy Pain; NSAIDs, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs; CPCSP, Post-mastectomy/post-thoracotomy pain; PBMT, Photobiomodulation Therapy; LLLT, Low-Level Laser Therapy; TENS, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation; ST, Scrambler Therapy; tDCS, ranscranial Direct Current Stimulation; MT, manual therapy; SBRT, Exercise Therapy, Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy; MRgFUS, Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound
8.3.4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Treatment
Table 8. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

TCM

CVCP

CBCP

Fufang Kushen Zhusheye

(Sophora flavescens Aiton)

B2

B2

Cinobufotalin

B2

Shuangbai Powder

(Rheum palmatum, Mentha haplocalyx, Phellodendron chinense, Lycopus lucidus, Platycladus orientalis)

B2

Abbreviations: CVCP, Chronic Visceral Cancer Pain; CBCP, Chronic Bone Cancer Pain.
Table 9. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for External Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy.

Treatment

CVCP

CBCP

CPCMP

CPRP

CPCSP

Acupuncture

B3

B3

Moxibustion

A2

A2

A2

A2

Electroacupuncture

B2

Body Acupuncture

B2

B2

B2

Acupoint Injection

B3

Auricular Therapy

B3

Auricular Plaster Therapy

B3

Therapeutic Massage (Tuina)

B3

B3

Aromatherapy

B2

Abbreviations: CVCP, Chronic Visceral Cancer Pain; CBCP, Chronic Bone Cancer Pain; CPCMP, Chronic Post-Cancer Treatment Medication Pain; CPRP, Chronic Post-Radiotherapy Pain; NSAIDs, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs; CPCSP, Post-mastectomy/post-thoracotomy pain
Based on syndrome differentiation theory, TCM approaches for CCRP mainly include internal and external therapies.
1) Internal TCM treatments primarily involve herbal decoctions and Chinese patent medicines, which can alleviate pain and reduce opioid-related adverse effects as adjuvant therapies for cancer pain (Table 8 ).
2) External TCM therapies mainly consist of acupuncture, moxibustion, electroacupuncture, massage, auricular therapy, acupoint injection, and aromatherapy (Table 9 ).
8.3.5. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy refers to the therapeutic process of applying psychological principles and methods to establish a positive treatment relationship and interaction with patients while utilizing professional theories and techniques. Cancer pain patients often exhibit emotional disturbances such as anxiety, fear, and depression, and may even develop suicidal tendencies, making psychotherapy essential. Common psychological interventions for cancer pain management include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), hypnosis, music therapy, guided imagery, muscle relaxation training, mind-body therapy, and neurofeedback (NFB) (Table 10 ).
Table 10. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for Psychotherapy.

Treatment

Evidence Level

Recommendation Strength

CBT

A

2

Mind-Body Therapy

A

2

MBCT

A

1

MBSR

A

2

Hypnotherapy

B

2

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

B

2

Guided Imagery

B

3

Music Therapy

B

2

NFB

B

2

Abbreviations: CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; MBCT, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy; MBSR, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction; NFB, Neurofeedback Therapy
8.3.6. Digital Healthcare
Digital healthcare represents a novel medical approach that applies modern digital information technologies throughout the entire healthcare process, having evolved from e-health and telemedicine to mobile health and now digital therapeutics (DTx) (Table 11 ).
Table 11. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for Digital Healthcare.

Treatment

Evidence Level

Recommendation Strength

E-Health

B

2

Telemedicine

B

2

Mobile Health

B

2

Digital Therapeutics

B

2

8.3.7. Minimally Invasive Interventional Therapy
Minimally invasive interventional treatments primarily include patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), neurolytic ablation, percutaneous vertebroplasty, radioactive seed implantation, and intrathecal drug delivery systems (IDDS).
1) PCA Technology
Definition
PCA is a pain management technique where healthcare providers preset analgesic dosages based on patients' pain levels and physical conditions, then allow patients to self-administer medication . PCA offers rapid onset, stable blood concentration, effective analgesia, on-demand dosing, and high individualization.
Classification
PCA primarily includes: Patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA), Patient-controlled subcutaneous analgesia (PCSA), Patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA), Intrathecal PCA, Regional block PCA.
Indications
A. Patients with difficulty taking oral medications, gastrointestinal dysfunction, or bowel obstruction caused by digestive tract tumors.
B. Patients with inadequate pain relief from high-dose oral analgesics or who have developed tolerance.
C. Patients experiencing severe adverse effects from oral medications.
D. Opioid dose titration.
E. Patients with frequent cancer-related breakthrough pain (≥5 episodes daily).
Intelligent PCA Management
Cancer pain management requires long-term, dynamic monitoring and controlled substance regulation, necessitating digitalized platforms. A smart pain management platform connects tertiary-secondary-community-home care institutions and providers into a unified network, enabling standardized remote monitoring and real-time communication between providers and patients. AI-enhanced PCA (Ai-PCA) integrates IoT and AI technologies through terminals, wireless transmission, and central control systems, providing intelligent analysis, alerts, and remote monitoring for comprehensive, personalized PCA management .
2) Neurolytic Ablation
Neurolytic ablation is an interventional technique that involves applying chemical agents or physical modalities to target nerves in the pain region, inducing nerve tissue degeneration and structural damage to partially or completely disrupt sensory transmission, thereby achieving prolonged analgesia. Based on the ablation method, it is classified into chemical neurolysis and physical neurolysis.
Chemical Neurolysis
Chemical neurolysis involves the precise interventional application of chemical agents to the epidural space, subarachnoid space, nerve roots, nerve trunks, nerve plexuses, or even intratumoral nerve endings to control severe cancer-related pain without causing significant adverse effects. Neurolytic agents include absolute ethanol, phenol, doxorubicin, and methylene blue, with absolute ethanol being the most commonly used. The analgesic effect of chemical neurolysis typically lasts 2-4 months.
Physical Neurolysis
Physical neurolysis utilizes physical methods to induce nerve damage, partially or completely interrupting sensory nerve conduction to achieve analgesia. Common techniques include splanchnic nerve neurolysis (SNN), endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac plexus neurolysis (EUS-CPN), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), EUS-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA), percutaneous thermal ablation (PTA), microwave ablation, cryoablation, and high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).
3) Percutaneous Vertebroplasty
Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP), formally known as percutaneous puncture vertebroplasty, is a technique that involves injecting bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate) or artificial bone into affected vertebral bodies to reinforce their structural integrity. Percutanous kyphoplasty (PKP), an advanced modification of PVP, utilizes balloon expansion prior to staged bone cement injection, thereby reducing cement leakage risks. PKP demonstrates superior vertebral stabilization and height restoration capabilities compared to PVP. Both PVP and PKP effectively alleviate pain from primary or metastatic vertebral tumors while enhancing spinal stability, with additional tumoricidal effects that may inhibit neoplastic progression.
4) Radioactive Seed Implantation
Radioactive seed implantation is a procedure that involves precisely placing miniature radiation sources (125I) into tumors under CT or DSA guidance using implantation needles. The seeds continuously emit γ-rays and X-rays, which destroy tumor cells through direct DNA ionization damage and indirect oxygen free radical generation. Clinical observations have demonstrated that 125I seed implantation exhibits significant analgesic effects on cancer-related pain. This technique offers advantages including high intra-tumoral radiation dose concentration, low peripheral tissue exposure, excellent dose conformity, minimal complications, and good patient tolerance.
5) Intrathecal Drug Delivery System
The Intrathecal Drug Delivery System (IDDS) administers medications to the subarachnoid space at precisely controlled rates. By bypassing the blood-brain barrier and acting directly on the central nervous system, intrathecal delivery achieves significant analgesia with minimal doses, thereby reducing systemic adverse effects. IDDS should be considered for patients who cannot tolerate medication side effects and/or experience inadequate pain control with systemic opioids . Intrathecal analgesia represents a viable treatment option for cancer patients at any disease stage, particularly prioritized for those with limited life expectancy to achieve timely pain relief. According to the Chinese Expert Consensus on Intrathecal Drug Infusion for Cancer Pain Management (2022 Edition), intrathecal regimens should be opioid-centric with stepwise medication protocols . Opioids alone or combined with local anesthetics constitute first-line intrathecal therapy for cancer pain. The most common IDDS complication is low-pressure headache, while frequent adverse effects include urinary retention, nausea, and vomiting.
Evidence levels and recommendation strengths for commonly used minimally invasive interventions are presented in Table 12 .
Table 12. Evidence Quality Grading and Recommendation Strength for Minimally Invasive Interventional Therapy.

Type

Treatment

Evidence Level

Recommendation Strength

PCA

PCIA

A

1

PCSA

A

1

PCEA

A

1

Chemical Neurolysis

B

1

Physical Neurolysis

SNN

A

1

EUS-CPN

A

1

EUS-RFA

A

2

PTA

A

1

RFA

A

1

Microwave Ablation

A

1

Cryoablation

A

1

HIFU

A

2

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty

PVP

A

1

PKP

A

1

Radioactive Seed Implantation

A

1

IDDS

A

1

Abbreviations: PCA, Patient-Controlled Analgesia; PCIA, Patient-Controlled Intravenous Analgesia; PCSA, Patient-Controlled Subcutaneous Analgesia; PCEA, Patient-Controlled Epidural Analgesia; SNN, Splanchnic Nerve Neurolysis; EUS-CPN, Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Celiac Plexus Neurolysis; RFA, Radiofrequency Ablation; EUS-RFA, EUS-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation; PTA, Percutaneous Thermal Ablation; HIFU, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound; PVP, Percutaneous Vertebroplasty; PKP, Percutaneous Kyphoplasty
8.3.8. Rehabilitation Therapy
Rehabilitation for cancer pain patients is a comprehensive and individualized process that should be customized based on each patient's specific condition and needs. High-level evidence supports rehabilitation recommendations including long-term follow-up care, fatigue management, and psychosocial/mental health screening , all aimed at helping patients alleviate pain, restore physical and mental health, and improve quality of life.
8.3.9. Palliative Care
Following a diagnosis of advanced cancer, patients' primary concerns typically include physical symptoms and adverse effects, functional decline, potential disease progression, and survival duration. Appropriate palliative care approaches should focus on pain management, nutritional support, and psychological interventions to optimize quality of life .
9. Breakthrough Cancer Pain
9.1. Concept
Breakthrough cancer pain (BTcP) refers to a transient pain exacerbation that occurs spontaneously or is triggered by specific factors despite relatively stable background pain control and adequate analgesic use, with a reported incidence of 33%-95%. BTcP is classified as either incident (precipitated) or spontaneous (idiopathic) - the former typically caused by predictable factors and thus more preventable, while the latter arises unpredictably and is more challenging to manage. BTcP represents a refractory cancer pain characterized by rapid onset, moderate-to-severe intensity, short duration, unpredictable nature, complex pathophysiology, and inherent treatment latency for all rescue medications.
9.2. Diagnostic Criteria
1) Has the patient experienced persistent pain (background pain) in the past week?
2) Was the patient's background pain adequately controlled (NRS ≤3) during this period?
3) Did the patient experience transient pain exacerbations (NRS ≥4)?
Affirmative answers to all three questions confirm a BTcP diagnosis.
9.3. Treatment Methods
Etiological treatment is essential. BTcP management primarily involves opioid-based rescue therapy (with fentanyl preparations most frequently recommended) combined with minimally invasive interventions.
9.3.1. Pharmacological Treatment
Current domestic approaches primarily include: (1) rapid-onset rescue medications; (2) PCA typically administered via intravenous or subcutaneous routes. Commonly used opioids comprise morphine and hydromorphone injections , with an emerging trend toward specialized fentanyl formulations including transmucosal oral lozenges, sublingual tablets, and nasal sprays .
9.3.2. Minimally Invasive Interventional Therapy
Appropriate selection of minimally invasive interventions can enhance cancer pain management efficacy while reducing BTcP frequency and intensity. Treatment options tailored to clinical conditions include: (1) tumor-targeted therapies (radioactive seed implantation, physical/chemical tumor ablation); (2) blockade of cancer pain pathways (splanchnic nerve/ganglion ablation, spinal nerve root/trunk neurolysis); (3) structural stabilization (percutaneous vertebroplasty/osteoplasty); (4) drug delivery optimization for enhanced efficacy and faster onset (IDDS, PCA).
10. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Pathway for CCRP
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Pathway is shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Pathway for CCRP.
Notes: Chronic Cancer-Related Pain (CCRP); Chronic Cancer Pain (CCP); Chronic Visceral Cancer Pain (CVCP); Chronic Bone Cancer Pain (CBCP); Chronic Neuropathic Cancer Pain (CNCP); Chronic Post-Cancer Treatment Pain (CPCTP); Chronic Post-Radiotherapy Pain; (CPRP); Chronic Post-Cancer Treatment Medication Pain (CPCMP); Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA); Chronic Post-Cancer surgery Pain (CPCSP); Intrathecal Drug Delivery systems (IDDS)
Abbreviations

BTcP

Breakthrough Cancer Pain

BPI

Brief Pain Inventory

CCP

Chronic Cancer Pain

CCRP

Chronic Cancer-related Pain

CPCTP

Chronic Post-cancer Treatment Pain

CVCP

Chronic Visceral Cancer Pain

CBCP

Chronic Bone Cancer Pain

CNCP

Chronic Neuropathic Cancer Pain

CIPN

Chronic Painful Chemotherapy Induced Polyneuropathy

CPCIN

Chronic Painful Chemotherapy Induced Neuropathy

CPCMP

Chronic Post-cancer Treatment Medication Pain

CPRP

Chronic Post-radiotherapy Pain

CPCSP

Chronic Post-cancer Surgery Pain

CNKI

China National Knowledge Infrastructure

ICD-11

Classification of Diseases-11

CBT

Cognitive-behavioral Therapy

CBC

Complete Blood Count

CT

Computed Tomography

DT

Distress Thermometer

DTx

Digital Therapeutics

PGE2

Prostaglandin E2

TNF

Tumor Necrosis Factor

RCTs

Randomized Controlled Trials

GRADE

Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation

FPS

Faces Pain Scale

TCM

Traditional Chinese Medicine

TENS

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

tDCS

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

GAD-7

Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7

IDDS

Intrathecal Drug Delivery Systems

LLLT

Low-level Laser Therapy

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRgFUS

Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound

MBCT

Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy

MBSR

Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction

NSAIDs

Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

NFB

Neurofeedback

NRS

Numerical Rating Scale

PCA

Patient-controlled Analgesia

PHQ-9

Patient Health Questionnaire-9

PBMT

Photobiomodulation Therapy

PET

Positron Emission Tomography

PVP

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty

PKP

Percutaneous Kyphoplasty

SPECT/ECT

Single-photon Emission Computed Tomography

SNRIs

Serotonin-norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors

ST

Scrambler Therapy

VAS

Visual Analogue Scale

WHO

World Health Organization

Acknowledgments
Special thanks to Kan Houming from Macau University of Science and Technology for professional translation assistance.
Conflict of Interest
All authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Cite This Article
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    Zhixiang, C., Ke, M., Jianxiu, W., Dequan, W., Cunwei, S., et al. (2025). A Chinese Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Cancer-related Pain. International Journal of Pain Research, 1(1), 10-33. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12

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    Zhixiang, C.; Ke, M.; Jianxiu, W.; Dequan, W.; Cunwei, S., et al. A Chinese Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Cancer-related Pain. . 2025, 1(1), 10-33. doi: 10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12

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    AMA Style

    Zhixiang C, Ke M, Jianxiu W, Dequan W, Cunwei S, et al. A Chinese Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Cancer-related Pain. . 2025;1(1):10-33. doi: 10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12

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  • @article{10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12,
      author = {Cheng Zhixiang and Ma Ke and Wang Jianxiu and Wang Dequan and Shi Cunwei and Liu Jinfeng and Liu Haipeng and Song Tao and Zhang Baojuan and Lin Xuewu and Zhou Huacheng and Wan Chunfu and Cao Hanzhong and Shu Ya and Fan Xiaochong and Liu Yanqing},
      title = {A Chinese Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Cancer-related Pain
    },
      journal = {International Journal of Pain Research},
      volume = {1},
      number = {1},
      pages = {10-33},
      doi = {10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12},
      url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12},
      eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijpr.20250101.12},
      abstract = {Background: Chronic cancer-related pain can seriously damage physical and mental health of cancer patients. Eliminating cancer pain is basic right of cancer patients, controlling and eliminating cancer pain is the responsibility of medical staff. Objective: To further enhance the diagnosis and treatment capabilities for chronic cancer-related pain management, the Chinese Clinical Guideline for Chronic Cancer-Related Pain convened an expert panel to develop the guideline. Main ideas: Based on high quality evidence of medical researches on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cancer-related pain published domestically and internationally in the past 10 years, the expert group has formed recommendations for common treatment methods through rigorous argumentation and expert voting, to provide references for standardized diagnosis and treatment of chronic cancer-related pain. This guideline adopts GRADE methodology to evaluate the level of evidence and strength of recommendation for the treatments of chronic cancer-related pain. This guideline gives treatment recommendations for different types of chronic cancer-related pain in International Classification of Diseases-11, as well as for breakthrough cancer pain. Conclusion: Although there are many treatments to relieve chronic cancer-related pain, it is still a global medical challenge. According to the characteristics of cancer-related pain, stepped and personalized treatment is the key to relieve pain.},
     year = {2025}
    }
    

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  • TY  - JOUR
    T1  - A Chinese Guideline for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Cancer-related Pain
    
    AU  - Cheng Zhixiang
    AU  - Ma Ke
    AU  - Wang Jianxiu
    AU  - Wang Dequan
    AU  - Shi Cunwei
    AU  - Liu Jinfeng
    AU  - Liu Haipeng
    AU  - Song Tao
    AU  - Zhang Baojuan
    AU  - Lin Xuewu
    AU  - Zhou Huacheng
    AU  - Wan Chunfu
    AU  - Cao Hanzhong
    AU  - Shu Ya
    AU  - Fan Xiaochong
    AU  - Liu Yanqing
    Y1  - 2025/07/28
    PY  - 2025
    N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12
    DO  - 10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12
    T2  - International Journal of Pain Research
    JF  - International Journal of Pain Research
    JO  - International Journal of Pain Research
    SP  - 10
    EP  - 33
    PB  - Science Publishing Group
    UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijpr.20250101.12
    AB  - Background: Chronic cancer-related pain can seriously damage physical and mental health of cancer patients. Eliminating cancer pain is basic right of cancer patients, controlling and eliminating cancer pain is the responsibility of medical staff. Objective: To further enhance the diagnosis and treatment capabilities for chronic cancer-related pain management, the Chinese Clinical Guideline for Chronic Cancer-Related Pain convened an expert panel to develop the guideline. Main ideas: Based on high quality evidence of medical researches on the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cancer-related pain published domestically and internationally in the past 10 years, the expert group has formed recommendations for common treatment methods through rigorous argumentation and expert voting, to provide references for standardized diagnosis and treatment of chronic cancer-related pain. This guideline adopts GRADE methodology to evaluate the level of evidence and strength of recommendation for the treatments of chronic cancer-related pain. This guideline gives treatment recommendations for different types of chronic cancer-related pain in International Classification of Diseases-11, as well as for breakthrough cancer pain. Conclusion: Although there are many treatments to relieve chronic cancer-related pain, it is still a global medical challenge. According to the characteristics of cancer-related pain, stepped and personalized treatment is the key to relieve pain.
    VL  - 1
    IS  - 1
    ER  - 

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  • Abstract
  • Keywords
  • Document Sections

    1. 1. Introduction
    2. 2. Guideline Development Methodology
    3. 3. Overview of CCRP
    4. 4. Mechanisms of CCRP
    5. 5. Clinical Features of CCRP
    6. 6. Diagnostic Workup
    7. 7. Diagnostic Criteria and Pain Assessment
    8. 8. Treatments
    9. 9. Breakthrough Cancer Pain
    10. 10. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Pathway for CCRP
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  • Abbreviations
  • Acknowledgments
  • Conflict of Interest
  • References
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