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Reflex sympathetic dystrophy associated with deep peroneal nerve entrapment
1Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
Brain & Development
|April 17, 1998
Summary
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is rare in children. Surgical decompression of a compressed peroneal nerve led to rapid improvement in a 10-year-old boy, suggesting this as a potential treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
- Pain Management
Background:
- Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), also known as causalgia, is infrequently documented in pediatric populations.
- This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and potential underlying mechanisms of RSD in children.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old boy presented with symptoms suggestive of RSD.
- Extensive investigations, including thermography, bone scintigraphy, and dermo-echography, were conducted.
- The patient exhibited deep peroneal nerve compression at the inferior extensor retinaculum in the affected limb.
Findings:
- Clinical and ancillary studies confirmed a profound focal acquired autonomic disturbance.
- Surgical decompression of the compressed deep peroneal nerve resulted in rapid symptom resolution.
- This suggests a specific anatomical cause for RSD in this pediatric case.
Implications:
- Peripheral nerve decompression is a viable treatment option for pediatric RSD, especially when conservative methods fail.
- This case broadens the understanding of RSD etiology and management in children.
- Early surgical intervention may significantly improve outcomes for children with nerve compression-related RSD.