A Potential Role of Chronic Exposure to Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields in Triggering Persistent Pain Post Breast Cancer Surgery: A Review

Abstract

Persistent Pain after Breast Cancer Surgery (PPBCS) ranks second to amputation of extremities for chronic neuropathic pain. PPBCS is associated with the formation of intercostobrachial neuroma bulbs along the lateral chest. These neuroma bulbs are either un-/thinly myelinated and express hypersensitivity to environmental stimuli. Hypersensitivity is manifested as spontaneous pain in response to innocuous stimuli and exaggerating pain in response to noxious stimuli. Excision of neuromas, a joint intervention to alleviate pain, has been reported as ineffective. Experience of individuals with amputation of extremities and experimental models of human nerve injuries confirm anthropogenic EMF evoke excruciating pain. Findings from in-vitro and animal studies support that EMF exposure depolarises cell membranes, interrupts voltage-gated calcium channels which then activates peripheral sensory neurons and initiates propagation of a train of action potentials along the axons of primary afferent nerve fibres. The World Health Organization guidelines, established based on an approximation of the human anatomy are limited and assumes no potential compounding effects of nerve injuries or alterations of the physiological milieu of tissues. The objective of this review is to direct the attention of the medical community to the potential role of anthropogenic EMF as a risk factor for persistent pain after breast surgery. Patients rely heavily on the recommendations of their providers to manage their pain. The current epidemic of opioid abuse in the US has been partially attributed to the high prescription rate of opioid-based painkillers. Understanding the potential triggers of chronic pain can reduce dependency on pharmaceutical agents.

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“…The speed of growth is about 1 to 4 mm per day. This process is dependent on close immediacy of the axonal sprouts and the Büngner bands [7]. With this regard, the estimation of healing period by measuring the distance from the site of the injury to the middle of the denervated muscles.…”