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Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (cont.)

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How is reflex sympathetic dystrophy diagnosed?

RSDS is diagnosed based on the clinical features described above. Blood testing is not abnormal because of RSDS but may be with one of its associated conditions as described above. X-rays can show patchy thinning or significant osteoporosis. Nuclear bone scanning can demonstrate characteristic uptake patterns.

What is the treatment for reflex sympathetic dystrophy?

Response to treatment is greater in earlier stages than later stages. Cool, moist applications can provide some relief of burning symptoms. Gradual exercising can prevent contracture. Medications for pain and inflammation can also reduce symptoms. For persisting symptoms, high doses of prednisone (cortisone) are used for periods of weeks, depending on response, then gradually reduced. Occasionally, a nerve block with anesthetic injected into a specialized area of the involuntary nervous system (stellate ganglion blockade) can help. Sometimes a series of these blocks is tried.

Other treatments include surgically interrupting the nerves (the sympathetic nerves) of the involuntary nervous system (surgical sympathectomy), pain drug pumps implanted into the spinal canal (intrathecal drug pumps), and spinal cord stimulation devices.

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome At A Glance
  • RSDS is characterized by a group of symptoms, including pain (often "burning" type), tenderness, and swelling of an extremity associated with varying degrees of sweating, warmth and/or coolness, flushing, discoloration, and shiny skin.
  • How RSDS occurs is not known, but there can be trigger events.
  • Symptoms of RSDS often occur in three stages: acute, dystrophic, atrophic.
  • Diagnosis of RSDS is based on clinical findings, supported by radiological tests.
  • Treatment of RSDS is most effective in earlier stages.

Last Editorial Review: 11/6/2007




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