Overview
Several studies have implicated involvement of sigma-1 receptors (SR1s) in the generation of chronic pain, while others are investigating anti SR1 drugs for treatment of chronic pain. Using [18F]-FTC-146 and positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI), the investigators hope to identify the source of pain generation in patients with chronic pain. The purpose of this study is to compare the uptake of [18F]FTC-146 in healthy volunteers to that of individuals suffering from chronic pain.
Description
Chronic pain is a significant, widespread problem affecting every fifth person worldwide. Reported in 2011 by the Institute of Medicine, chronic pain affects 116 million American adults - more than the total number of individuals affected by heart disease, cancer, and diabetes combined. An estimated $635 billion each year is spent in the medical management of chronic pain and lost productivity. Better clinical methods to diagnose and localize pain are needed.
The investigators have developed a S1R-specific radiotracer, [18F]FTC-146. Using imaging approaches to assess the location of S1R in pain may provide a tool to diagnose pain generators, monitor treatment response, and aid in the selection of patients for treatment.
The goal is to use [18F]FTC-146 to image S1R expression in healthy volunteers and to compare the images to those individuals suffering from pain conditions in the following categories: (1) nociceptive pain (pain that results from tissue injury or inflammation), (2) neuropathic pain (pain that results from direct injury, disruption, impingement/compression or malfunction of the peripheral and/or central nervous system), and (3) mixed pain (pain that appears to have both nociceptive and neuropathic).
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
Healthy Volunteers:
- At least 18 years old.
- Covid Vaccination status: Vaccinated or unvaccinated subjects who received a negative test result from the Covid test within 72 hours of the scan.
Pain Patients:
- At least 18 years old.
- Chronic pain (nociceptive, neuropathic or mixed pain) lasting greater than 2 months.
- Pain level of at least 4/10 on a 0-10 Comparative Pain Scale.
- Covid Vaccination status: Vaccinated or unvaccinated subjects who received a negative test result from the Covid test within 72 hours of the scan.
Exclusion Criteria:
Healthy Volunteers:
- Pain
- Pain Medication
- MRI incompatible
- Pregnant or nursing
- Non-English speaker
- Claustrophobic
Pain Patients:
- MRI incompatible
- Pregnant or nursing
- Non-English speaker
- Claustrophobic