Pathophysiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I: Update
Journal: International Journal of Anesthesiology & Research (IJAR) (Vol.03, No. 07)Publication Date: 2015-08-14
Authors : Martino Bussa; M. Lucia; A. Mascaro; L. Cuffaro; T. Bont;
Page : 141-146
Keywords : Complex Regional Pain Syndrome; Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy; Neurogenic Inflammation; Sympathetic Nervous System; Neuropathic Pain.;
Abstract
Background: Complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS I), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), develops as disabling painful disorder following a trauma or surgery to a limb. We provide a review based on the current literature concerning the epidemiology and pathophysiology of CRPS I. Possible pathophysiological mechanisms of CRPS I are inflammation, sympathetic-afferent coupling and cortical changes. Methods: A literature search was conducted using, as electronic bibliographic database, Medline from 1980 until today. Results: CRPS I is a multifactorial disorder with complex aetiology and pathogenesis. Conclusions: The pathophysiology of CRPS I is complex and may change during its course. CRPS I is more than a peripheral disease because peripheral mechanisms such as neurogenic inflammation and sympathetic-afferent coupling inconclusively explain its pathophysiology. CRPS I is a pain disorder involving the somatosensory, the somatomotor and the sympathetic nervous systems. Genetic findings suggest there might be a predisposition to CRPS I and it has been confirmed in multiple studies that psychological factors are not predictors for the development of CRPS I. The complexity and diversity of the mechanisms involved will be liable to the heterogeneity of the clinical presentation and may explain the difficulty of achieving an evidence-based treatment of CRPS I.
Other Latest Articles
- Serotonin Syndrome in the Intensive Care Unit Following Orthotopic Heart Transplantation: A Case Report
- Laparoscopic Surgeries during Pregnancy - Related Anaesthetic Concerns
- Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Short Review
- Neurophysiological Monitoring during Surgery on the Central Nervous System: The Role of Evoked Responses
- Fatal Complications during Anaesthesia in Moebius Syndrome: A Case Report and Brief Discussion of Relevant Precautions and Preoperative Assessments
Last modified: 2015-10-24 13:49:04