Integrative Genomic Analysis In Phantom Limb Pain

Background:

• Many people who lose a limb feel pain in the missing limb. This feeling is called phantom limb pain. Researchers do not fully understand what causes this pain. Differences in people's genes may play a role. Comparing the genes of people with and without phantom limb pain may help researchers better understand this feeling, who is likely to develop it, and how to treat it.

Objectives:

• To study whether genetic differences affect phantom limb pain.

Eligibility:

• Individuals at least 18 years of age who have lost an arm or leg at least 3 months ago.

Design:

• Participants will be screened with a medical history and physical exam.
• Participants will answer questions about how they lost the limb, and whether they feel phantom limb pain. They will also have a test to measure their sensitivity to heat and cold.
• Participants will provide a blood sample for genetic testing.