The use of phenol as a neurolytic agent: A review

Abstract

This review discussed the use of phenol as a neurolytic agent and its chemical, pharmacological and pathophysiological properties. It was widely employed to relieve both pain and spasticity. The ideal neurolytic agent would cause destruction of C, A delta and A gamma fibers only, thus interrupting only pain-bearing afferents and tonus-stimulating efferents. This ideal has yet to be found. Phenol causes indiscriminate destruction, depending on its concentration. It is probably more commonly used than alcohol and ammonium sulfate.