Effect of transcranial magnetic stimulation on prognosis in patients with postherpetic neuralgia and comorbid depression undergoing interventional neuromodulation therapy: protocol for a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial - Summary - MDSpire

Effect of transcranial magnetic stimulation on prognosis in patients with postherpetic neuralgia and comorbid depression undergoing interventional neuromodulation therapy: protocol for a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial

  • By

  • Huichan Xu

  • Yanan Gao

  • Junpeng Yuan

  • Liqun Huang

  • Youjia Yu

  • Xiaohong Jin

  • April 10, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To generate preliminary evidence on the efficacy and safety of rTMS in enhancing prognosis and alleviating pain in patients with PHN and mild to moderate depression undergoing specific interventional neuromodulation therapies.

Key Findings:
  • PHN is often accompanied by depression, complicating treatment outcomes.
  • rTMS has shown potential in alleviating both pain and mood disturbances, supported by existing literature.
  • The study aims to assess the efficacy of rTMS as an adjunct to interventional therapies.
Interpretation:

The study seeks to explore the combined effects of rTMS and interventional neuromodulation on improving outcomes for patients suffering from PHN and depression.

Limitations:
  • Single-center study may limit generalizability.
  • Follow-up duration may not capture long-term effects.
  • Potential biases due to sample size.
Conclusion:

This study will provide insights into the efficacy and safety of rTMS in improving prognosis and pain relief in PHN patients with concurrent depression, potentially influencing clinical practice.

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