A patient with chronic pancreatitis experiences intense abdominal pain despite opioid treatment. Which mechanism is most likely contributing to this patient's persistent pain, exceeding typical nociception pathways?

💡 Explanation

Chronic pain induces neuroplastic changes in the central nervous system, amplifying pain signals. Central sensitization occurs because persistent nociceptive input leads to NMDA receptor potentiation in the dorsal horn neurons, increasing their excitability and responsiveness to subsequent stimuli. Therefore, central sensitization explains the persistent pain, rather than just peripheral fiber activation or issues directly related to opioid receptors.

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