Case of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Triggered by Epileptic Seizure
Author Information
Author(s): Masahiko Sumitani, Arito Yozu, Toshiya Tomioka, Satoru Miyauchi, Yoshitsugu Yamada
Primary Institution: The University of Tokyo Hospital
Hypothesis
Can complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) symptoms be influenced by abnormal brain conditions such as epileptic discharges?
Conclusion
The symptoms of CRPS may be sustained by abnormal brain conditions, and controlling epileptic discharges can alleviate these symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient's CRPS symptoms improved with a nerve blockade and physiotherapy.
- Symptoms returned after an epileptic seizure but improved again after controlling the seizures.
- SPECT and EEG findings indicated abnormal brain activity related to the seizures.
Takeaway
A woman with severe pain from CRPS had her symptoms come back after a seizure, but they went away again when the seizure was treated.
Methodology
The patient was treated with a regional intravenous nerve blockade and physiotherapy, and her condition was monitored using SPECT and EEG.
Limitations
The initiating injury for CRPS was unknown, and the case is based on a single patient.
Participant Demographics
A 65-year-old woman with a history of aortic regurgitation and multiple surgeries.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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