Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a pain presentation that can be further classified into two types: the absence (type I) or presence of (type II) peripheral nerve injury. The pain presentation for each type of CRPS can also be associated with cutaneous changes, as well as motor and sensory changes to the affected limb. This literature review examined the current literature for prevalence, diagnosis, as well as current treatment strategies in the management of CRPS.
With regards to CRPS diagnosis, the authors note the use of the Budapest Criteria as well as the Orlando Criteria for helping to note if a pain presentation meets the criteria for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. The authors reviewed common medication management including NSAIDS and Gabapentin, but noted no evidence to support NSAIDS for CRPS management, and further data needed to support the clinical usage for Gabapentin. Other strategies currently uses CRPS management were hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and Botulinum toxin-A treatment, but neither has been proven to aid in the wider management of CRPS.
Current approaches in management of CRPS are suggested to be multi-modal, and it is widely understood that the presentation of CRPS often requires consultation with medical as well as rehabilitation teams. In some cases patients may also benefit from psychology input to aid in secondary risk factors of CRPS. More research on this subject is needed, and treatment aimed at treating an isolated symptom will likely not have as good of an effect as a multi-disciplinary approach.
> From: Goh et al., Burns Trauma 5 (2017) 2. All rights reserved to The Author(s). Click here for the online summary.
