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The sympathetic skin response in reflex sympathetic dystrophy
1Department of Neurology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Israel.
Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Sympathetic skin response (SSR) abnormalities were found in patients with reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD). These changes, more pronounced early after injury, may indicate peripheral or central nervous system issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Autonomic Nervous System Function
- Pain Management
Background:
- Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is a complex pain condition.
- The sympathetic skin response (SSR) is a measure of sympathetic nervous system function.
- Understanding SSR in RSD is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sympathetic skin response (SSR) patterns in patients diagnosed with reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD).
- To correlate SSR findings with the duration and severity of RSD symptoms.
- To explore the potential origins of SSR abnormalities in RSD.
Main Methods:
- Electrophysiological assessment of sympathetic skin response (SSR).
- Inclusion of 12 consecutive patients with a confirmed diagnosis of reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD).
- Comparison of SSR amplitudes between affected and contralateral limbs.
Main Results:
- Abnormal SSR findings were observed in all 12 patients.
- Normal SSR in 5, reduced amplitude in 3, and absent SSR in 4 patients.
- Abnormalities were more pronounced in patients within the first year post-injury.
Conclusions:
- Sympathetic skin response (SSR) is frequently altered in reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD).
- The observed SSR abnormalities may stem from peripheral nerve injury or central nervous system dysfunction.
- Early detection of SSR changes could aid in understanding RSD pathophysiology.