Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 of the upper limb following glass cut of the third finger in a patient

Abstract

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain syndrome characterized with edema, autonomic dysfunction, and dystrophic changes. We present the case of CRPS in a 32-year-old male in whom the diagnosis was based on the bone scan; characterized by disabling pain, swelling, vasomotor instability, sudomotor abnormality, and impairment of motor function. This disorder usually develops after minor trauma or surgery. Its diagnosis is very difficult and based on diagnostic criteria which have been changing over last years. However, there is no golden standard in the diagnosis of this entity. Three-phase bone scan is a widely used diagnostic modality which has been proved useful in CRPS. Multidisciplinary approach is necessary for proper and quick diagnosis.

Keywords

• complex regional pain syndromes
• diagnosis
• scintigraphy