Neuro-algodystrophy: a psychiatrist's view

In this article the syndrome of neuro-algodystrophy is discussed from a psychiatric point of view. First, a review is given of the scarce psychological literature on this subject. Secondly, a retrospective study of 32 neuro-algodystrophy patients, seen in a psychiatric consultation practice, is presented; in nearly all cases of this highly selected group, an obvious time-relation with a significant psychological factor could be determined, and in more than 60%, some kind of affective loss was concerned. Thirdly, some theoretical speculations about these findings are formulated. Finally, it is concluded that the diagnostic and therapeutic contribution of the psychiatrist may be valuable, at least in some cases of neuro-algodystrophy.