Complex regional pain syndrome
Pittman, D.M.; Belgrade, M.J.
American Family Physician 56(9): 2265-2270; 2275-2276
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-838X PMID: 9402812 Document Number: 470817
The term "complex regional pain syndrome" encompasses causalgia and reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Symptoms of burning pain with autonomic and tissue changes begin shortly after an injury, usually to a distal extremity. The diagnosis is based on the history and the clinical findings. No confirmatory tests are available, although plain radiographs or a three-phase bone scan may be helpful in diagnosing some cases. Aggressive treatment, which may include sympathetic blockade, medications, physical therapy and psychotherapy, is essential for a favorable outcome. Despite treatment, many patients are left with varying degrees of chronic pain and disability.