Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology

Jump to navigation Jump to search

Complex regional pain syndrome Microchapters

Home

Patient Information

Overview

Historical Perspective

Classification

Pathophysiology

Causes

Differentiating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome from other Diseases

Epidemiology and Demographics

Risk Factors

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Criteria

History and Symptoms

Physical Examination

Laboratory Findings

X Ray

Other Imaging Findings

Other Diagnostic Studies

Treatment

Medical Therapy

Surgery

Primary Prevention

Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy

Future or Investigational Therapies

Case Studies

Case #1

Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology On the Web

Most recent articles

Most cited articles

Review articles

CME Programs

Powerpoint slides

Images

American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology

All Images
X-rays
Echo & Ultrasound
CT Images
MRI

Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov

US National Guidelines Clearinghouse

NICE Guidance

FDA on Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology

CDC on Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology

Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology in the news

Blogs on Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology

Directions to Hospitals Treating Complex regional pain syndrome

Risk calculators and risk factors for Complex regional pain syndrome pathophysiology

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Recent research has suggested that oxidative damage (e.g. by free radicals) may play a role in the pathophysiology of complex regional pain syndrome. The sympathetic nervous system may also play an important role in the pain aspect of the condition. Another theory is that CRPS is caused by a triggering of the immune response.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of CRPS remains unclear. However, recent research has suggested that oxidative damage (e.g. by free radicals) associated with one of the precipitating factors described earlier may play a role.[1]

Doctors aren't sure what causes CRPS. In some cases, the sympathetic nervous system plays an important role in the pain. Another theory is that CRPS is caused by a triggering of the immune response, which leads to the inflammatory symptoms of redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected area.

CRPS is thought to result from damage to the nervous system, including the nerves that control the blood vessels and sweat glands.

The damaged nerves are no longer able to properly control blood flow, feeling (sensation), and temperature to the affected area. This leads to medical problems in the:

  • Blood vessels
  • Bones
  • Muscles
  • Nerves
  • Skin

Susceptibility

CRPS can strike at any age, but is more common between the ages of 40 and 60. It affects both men and women, but is more frequently seen in women. The number of reported CRPS cases among adolescents and young adults is increasing.

Investigators estimate that two to five percent of those with peripheral nerve injury and 12 to 21 percent of those with hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of the body) will suffer from CRPS.

Research has demonstrated that the administration of Vitamin C after an injury may decrease one's susceptibility to developing CRPS.[1]

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 Zollinger PE, Tuinebreijer WE, Breederveld RS, Kreis RW (2007). "Can Vitamin C Prevent Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in Patients with Wrist Fractures? A Randomized, Controlled, Multicenter Dose-Response Study". J Bone Joint Surg Am. 89 (7): 1424–1431. PMID 17606778.

Template:WH Template:WS