Neurolytica

Neurolytica is a term used in medicine to refer to agents or substances that induce neurolysis, the destruction or degeneration of nerve tissue. The word combines neuro- (nerve) with lysis, and in practice it denotes chemicals applied to nerve tissue to produce long-lasting loss of function in the targeted nerve.

Common chemical neurolytic agents include absolute alcohol (ethanol) and phenol; glycerol is also used in some settings. These agents are typically injected perineurally around the selected nerve or nerve plexus under imaging guidance to confine the action to the intended site. The mechanism involves denaturation of proteins, disruption of cell membranes, and degeneration of axons and myelin, leading to interrupted nerve conduction and durable pain relief or reduction of spasticity.

Clinical use is mainly in cases of intractable cancer pain, severe neuropathic pain, or focal spasticity where other treatments have failed or are unsuitable. The effects are often permanent or long-lasting, but can be accompanied by sensory changes, weakness, or dysesthesia if non-target fibers are affected. Risks include local tissue damage, infection, bleeding, neuropathic pain, and systemic toxicity from the injected agent. Because of irreversibility and potential complications, neurolytic procedures require careful patient selection, informed consent, and skilled technique.

While chemical neurolysis remains one option in a broader pain-management toolkit, other modalities such as conventional nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, or non-destructive therapies may be considered depending on the condition and goals of care.