Correlation between Imaging Findings and Stress-Related Biomarkers in Patients with Chronic Pain

Authors: Abeer M. Alharbi, Noura I. Alrediny, Shahla S. Aldegheishem, Hanan S. Alanazi, Wafa I. Alotaibi, Nourah M. Alorainy, Maha I. Alonazi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14381679

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8t993

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Chronic pain is a multifactorial condition influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between stress-related biomarkers, radiological imaging findings, psychological factors, sleep disturbances, and pain intensity in patients with chronic pain.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital, involving 150 patients with chronic pain. Biomarkers (serum cortisol, CRP, IL-6), imaging findings (fMRI, MRS), psychological assessments (PCS, HADS, PSS), and sleep measures (PSQI, ESS) were analyzed. Correlation coefficients and multivariate regression models were used to assess associations.

Results: Significant correlations were found between biomarkers and imaging findings (cortisol: r = 0.52, p < 0.01; IL-6: r = 0.56, p < 0.01). Psychological factors, particularly pain catastrophizing (PCS: r = 0.65, p < 0.01), and poor sleep quality (PSQI: r = 0.55, p < 0.01) were strongly associated with neural changes in pain-processing regions. Pain intensity (NPRS: r = 0.67, p < 0.01) was the strongest predictor of imaging abnormalities.

Conclusion: This study highlights the biopsychosocial complexity of chronic pain, emphasizing the need for integrated interventions targeting stress, psychological health, and sleep disturbances to improve outcomes in chronic pain management.

Keywords: Chronic Pain, Biomarkers, Neuroimaging, Psychological Factors, Sleep Disturbances, Pain Intensity

Paper Id: 231805

Published On: 2021-05-11

Published In: Volume 9, Issue 3, May-June 2021

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