Genetic Variants Associated with Cancer Pain and Response to Opioid Analgesics: Implications for Precision Pain Management.

Most included studies were in non-Hispanic white patients with solid tumors, so the results may not apply to patients with other cancers or ethnic backgrounds. Most genetic associations have not been replicated, so they are not confirmed for clinical use. The studies did not use one consistent way to define or measure cancer pain. The review selected polymorphisms already reported to have significant associations, so negative or inconclusive findings may be under-represented. The paper describes associations, not tested interventions, so it cannot show that genetic testing improves care.

No conflicts-of-interest or funding declaration is present in the supplied text. The publication types list NIH extramural research support.

Do not conclude that genetic testing can guide opioid choice or dose for cancer pain. The paper reports associations from published studies, many of which need replication, and it says such tests would need to be clinically available before patients could benefit.