A case of RSD resolved by cerebral contusion

Shibata M, Nakao K, Galer BS, et al. A case of reflex sympathetic dystrophy ( complex regional pain syndrome, type I) resolved by cerebral contusion. Pain 1999;79:313-315

  • The case described suggests that a cerebral lesion in the left temporal lobe in the resolution of the signs and symptoms of RSD(CRPS,I). The neurophysiologic alterations within the CNS responsible for this dramatic clinical recovery are unclear, although the possibilities include alterations in nociceptive processing, the affective component of pain, and central autonomic function. The case report offers suggestive information regarding possible future areas of research into the pathophysiological mechanism of and therapy of RSD.