Gene Variant May Be Reason for Discomfort.

The article reports on the identification of a link between a gene variant and increased sensitivity to pain in some children, which may affect the effectiveness of topical anesthetics, by researchers at the University of Iowa's College of Nursing in Iowa City. The study gives a genetic explanation for the association between children's temperament and activity level and their pain response. Care providers must consider predictors such as age, activity level and anxiety in children.