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Abd-Elsayed A, Stark CW, Topoluk N, Isaamullah M, Uzodinma P, Viswanath O, Gyorfi MJ, Fattouh O, Schlidt KC, Dyara O. A brief review of complex regional pain syndrome and current management. Ann Med 2024; 56:2334398. [PMID: 38569195 PMCID: PMC10993759 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2024.2334398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating chronic pain condition that, although exceedingly rare, carries a significant burden for the affected patient population. The complex and ambiguous pathophysiology of this condition further complicates clinical management and therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, being a diagnosis of exclusion requires a diligent workup to ensure an accurate diagnosis and subsequent targeted management. The development of the Budapest diagnostic criteria helped to consolidate existing definitions of CRPS but extensive work remains in identifying the underlying pathways. Currently, two distinct types are identified by the presence (CRPS type 1) or absence (CRPS type 2) of neuronal injury. Current management directed at this disease is broad and growing, ranging from non-invasive modalities such as physical and psychological therapy to more invasive techniques such as dorsal root ganglion stimulation and potentially amputation. Ideal therapeutic interventions are multimodal in nature to address the likely multifactorial pathological development of CRPS. Regardless, a significant need remains for continued studies to elucidate the pathways involved in developing CRPS as well as more robust clinical trials for various treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Abd-Elsayed
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of WI School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Cain W. Stark
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
| | - Natasha Topoluk
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
| | - Mir Isaamullah
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
| | - Paul Uzodinma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
| | - Omar Viswanath
- Anesthesiology, LSU Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Michael J. Gyorfi
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of WI School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Osama Fattouh
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kevin C. Schlidt
- Department of Surgery, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Omar Dyara
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
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Varenna M, Orsini F, Di Taranto R, Zucchi F, Adami G, Gatti D, Crotti C. Bone Turnover Markers and Wnt Signaling Modulators in Early Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. A Pre-specified Observational Study. Calcif Tissue Int 2024; 115:251-259. [PMID: 38951180 DOI: 10.1007/s00223-024-01251-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
To explore serum levels of some bone turnover markers and the involvement of the Wnt signaling in CRPS-1. Query ID="Q1" Text="Please check and confirm whether the edit made to the article title is in order." We conducted an observational study on patients with early CRPS-1 recruited before any treatment. Clinical measures were assessed together with biochemical evaluation. Values of sclerostin, DKK1, CTX-I, and P1NP were compared with sex-age-matched healthy controls (HCs). We enrolled 34 patients diagnosed with CRPS-1 (mean age 59.3 ± 10.6 years, Male/Female 10/24), median disease duration = 2 weeks (IQR 1-5); median VAS score = 76 (IQR 68-80). Foot localization was slightly more frequent than hand localization (18/16). No statistically significant difference was found between CRPS-1 patients and HCs for CTX-I (0.3 ± 0.1 ng/ml vs 0.3 ± 0.1, p = 0.140), while mean serum values of P1NP were significantly higher in CRPS-1 patients compared to HCs (70.0 ± 38.8 ng/ml vs 50.1 ± 13.6, p = 0.005). Mean levels of sclerostin and DKK1 were lower in CRPS-1 patients vs HCs (sclerostin 28.4 ± 10.8 pmol/l vs 34.1 ± 11.6, p = 0.004; DKK1 12.9 ± 10.8 pmol/l vs 24.1 ± 11.9, p = 0.001). No statistically significant difference was found for all biochemical assessments in a subgroup of fracture-induced CRPS-1. No statistically significant differences were observed according to disease localization, disease duration, presence of hyperalgesia, allodynia, sudomotor alterations, and mild or moderate/severe swelling. No significant correlation emerged between sclerostin, DKK1 levels, baseline VAS score, or McGill Pain Questionnaire score. Bone involvement in early CRPS-1 does not seem to rely on increased osteoclast activity. Conversely, a serum marker of bone formation resulted increased. Both Sclerostin and DKK1 showed decreased values, probably suggesting a widespread osteocyte loss of function.Trial registration number: Eudract Number: 2014-001156-28.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Varenna
- Bone Diseases Unit, Department of Rheumatology and Medical Sciences, ASST G. Pini-CTO, Via Pini, 9, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Francesco Orsini
- Bone Diseases Unit, Department of Rheumatology and Medical Sciences, ASST G. Pini-CTO, Via Pini, 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaele Di Taranto
- Bone Diseases Unit, Department of Rheumatology and Medical Sciences, ASST G. Pini-CTO, Via Pini, 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Zucchi
- Bone Diseases Unit, Department of Rheumatology and Medical Sciences, ASST G. Pini-CTO, Via Pini, 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Adami
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata di Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Davide Gatti
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata di Verona, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Crotti
- Bone Diseases Unit, Department of Rheumatology and Medical Sciences, ASST G. Pini-CTO, Via Pini, 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
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Sobeeh MG, Hassan KA, Silva AG, Bruehl S. Impact of different CRPS phenotypes and diagnostic criteria on quantitative sensory testing outcomes: systematic review and meta-analysis. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2024; 25:211-225. [PMID: 37930043 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of diagnostic criteria and clinical phenotypes on quantitative sensory testing (QST) outcomes in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). METHODS Eight databases were searched based on a previously published protocol. Forty studies comparing QST outcomes between CRPS-I vs II, warm vs cold CRPS, upper vs lower limb CRPS, males vs females, or using Budapest vs older IASP criteria were included. RESULTS Studies investigating QST differences between CRPS-I vs II (n = 4), between males vs females (n = 2), and between upper and lower limb CRPS (n = 2) showed no significant differences. Four studies compared QST outcomes in warm vs cold CRPS, showing heat hyperalgesia in warm CRPS, with thermal and mechanical sensory loss in cold CRPS. Although CRPS diagnosed using the Budapest criteria (24 studies) vs 1994 IASP criteria (13 studies) showed similar sensory profiles, there was significant heterogeneity and low quality of evidence in the latter. CONCLUSIONS Based on the findings of this review, classifying CRPS according to presence or absence of nerve lesion into CRPS-I and II, location (upper or lower limb) or according to sex might not be clinically relevant as all appear to have comparable sensory profiles that might suggest similar underlying mechanisms. In contrast, warm vs cold phenotypes exhibited clear differences in their associated QST sensory profiles. To the extent that differences in underlying mechanisms might lead to differential treatment responsiveness, it appears unlikely that CRPS-I vs II, CRPS location, or patient sex would prove useful in guiding clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Gomaa Sobeeh
- Department of Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders and its Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Physical Therapy for Orthopedic and orthopedic surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Sinai University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Karima Abdelaty Hassan
- Department of Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders and its Surgery, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Anabela G Silva
- CINTESIS.UA@RISE, School of Health Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Stephen Bruehl
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
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van den Berg C, Huygen FJPM, Tiemensma J. The efficacy of oral corticoids in treating complex regional pain syndrome: A retrospective cohort study. Pain Pract 2024; 24:394-403. [PMID: 37882378 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is growing evidence supporting the role of inflammatory mechanisms in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Corticoids, as most effective anti-inflammatory drugs, are widely used in treating inflammation. The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess the efficacy of oral corticoid treatment in CRPS patients. METHODS Patients treated at the center of pain medicine in the Erasmus University Medical Centre between January 2015 and January 2020 were approached to partake in this study. Medical records were screened for age, gender, medical history, duration of CRPS, and CRPS severity score. Also, treatment effect, dose and duration, pain scores (NRS), and side effects were extracted from medical records. In addition, global perceived effect was completed in patients treated with corticoids. RESULTS Between January 2015 and January 2020, twenty-nine CRPS patients received corticoids and met the inclusion criteria. One extreme outlier was excluded and treatment effect was unknown for one patient. Average daily dose was 28.9 mg (range 10-30 mg) and the mean treatment duration was 10.5 days (7-21 days). Fourteen patients (51.9%) responded positively to treatment and thirteen (48.1%) did not respond. Side effects were reported in five patients (17.9%). CONCLUSIONS Corticoid treatment was effective in more than half of the patients. With only mild side effects reported the treatment also appears to be relatively safe. Further research is needed to investigate the efficacy of corticoids in treating (early) CRPS, preferably in an intervention study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinne van den Berg
- Department of Anesthesiology, Centre for Pain Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J P M Huygen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Centre for Pain Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jitske Tiemensma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Centre for Pain Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Shaikh SS, Goebel A, Lee MC, Nahorski MS, Shenker N, Pamela Y, Drissi I, Brown C, Ison G, Shaikh MF, Kuttikat A, Woods WA, Dixit A, Stouffer K, Clarke MC, Menon DK, Woods CG. Evidence of a genetic background predisposing to complex regional pain syndrome type 1. J Med Genet 2024; 61:163-170. [PMID: 37816627 PMCID: PMC10850724 DOI: 10.1136/jmg-2023-109236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS-1) is a rare, disabling and sometimes chronic disorder usually arising after a trauma. This exploratory study examined whether patients with chronic CRPS-1 have a different genetic profile compared with those who do not have the condition. METHODS Exome sequencing was performed to seek altered non-synonymous SNP allele frequencies in a discovery cohort of well-characterised patients with chronic CRPS-1 (n=34) compared with population databases. Identified SNP alleles were confirmed by Sanger sequencing and sought in a replication cohort (n=50). Gene expression of peripheral blood macrophages was assessed. RESULTS In the discovery cohort, the rare allele frequencies of four non-synonymous SNPs were statistically increased. The replication cohort confirmed this finding. In a chronic pain cohort, these alleles were not overexpressed. In total, 25 out of 84 (29.8%) patients with CRPS-1 expressed a rare allele. The SNPs were rs41289586 in ANO10, rs28360457 in P2RX7, rs1126930 in PRKAG1 and rs80308281 in SLC12A9. Males were more likely than females to have a rare SNP allele, 8 out of 14 (57.1%) vs 17 out of 70 (24.3%) (Fisher's p=0.023). ANO10, P2RX7, PRKAG1 and SLC12A9 were all expressed in macrophages from healthy human controls. CONCLUSION A single SNP in each of the genes ANO10, P2RX7, PRKAG1 and SLC12A9 was associated with developing chronic CRPS-1, with more males than females expressing these rare alleles. Our work suggests the possibility that a permissive genetic background is an important factor in the development of CRPS-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samiha S Shaikh
- Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Andreas Goebel
- Pain Research Institute, Clinical Sciences Centre, University of Liverpool Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael C Lee
- Department of Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Michael S Nahorski
- Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Nicholas Shenker
- Department of Rheumatology, Addenbrooke's Hospital Rheumatology Department, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Yunisa Pamela
- Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Ichrak Drissi
- Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Christopher Brown
- Department of Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Gillian Ison
- Department of Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Maliha F Shaikh
- Department of Rheumatology, Addenbrooke's Hospital Rheumatology Department, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Anoop Kuttikat
- Department of Rheumatology, Addenbrooke's Hospital Rheumatology Department, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - William A Woods
- Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Abhishek Dixit
- Department of Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Kaitlin Stouffer
- Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Murray Ch Clarke
- Heart and Lung Research Institute, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - David K Menon
- Brain Physics Laboratory, University of Cambridge Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - C Geoffrey Woods
- Medical Genetics, Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK
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Mangnus TJP, Dirckx M, Huygen FJPM. Different Types of Pain in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Require a Personalized Treatment Strategy. J Pain Res 2023; 16:4379-4391. [PMID: 38162406 PMCID: PMC10757771 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s432209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating painful state of an extremity that can develop after trauma. CRPS is diagnosed by the new International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) diagnostic criteria for CRPS. The syndrome is characterized by continuing regional pain with abnormal sensory, motor, sudomotor, vasomotor, edema, and/or trophic signs. The clinical presentation of CRPS can be very heterogeneous because CRPS is a multi-mechanism syndrome. Therefore, mechanism-based subgroups have been suggested to personalize treatment for CRPS. Additionally, the presentation of symptom pain may also be able to identify different subgroups of CRPS. In this review, the types of pain recognized by the IASP-nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain-will be discussed as possible subgroups for CRPS. Each pain type should be identified in CRPS patients, with a thorough history taking, physical examination, and diagnostic tests or (novel) biomarkers to optimize treatment effectiveness. Over the course of the syndrome, patients with CRPS probably experience more than one distinct pain type. Therefore, pain specialists should be alert to not only adjust their treatment if underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms tend to change but also to personalize the treatment of the associated type of pain in the CRPS patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J P Mangnus
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike Dirckx
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frank J P M Huygen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Knudsen L, Santoro L, Bruehl S, Harden N, Brunner F. Subtypes of complex regional pain syndrome-a systematic review of the literature. Pain Rep 2023; 8:e1111. [PMID: 38027463 PMCID: PMC10653603 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
To systematically identify and summarize possible subtypes of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), we searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science for original studies reporting or investigating at least one subtype within a group of patients with CRPS. The search retrieved 4239 potentially relevant references. Twenty-five studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Complex regional pain syndrome phenotypes were investigated based on the following variables: clinical presentation/sensory disturbances, dystonia, skin temperature, disease duration, onset type, CRPS outcome, and neuropsychological test performance. Support was found for the following CRPS subtypes: CRPS type I, CRPS type II, acute CRPS, chronic CRPS, centralized CRPS, cold CRPS, warm CRPS, inflammatory CRPS, dystonic CRPS, nondystonic CRPS, familial CRPS, and nonfamilial CRPS. It is unclear whether these are distinct or overlapping subtypes. The results of this comprehensive review can facilitate the formulation of well-defined CRPS subtypes based on presumed underlying mechanisms. Our findings provide a foundation for establishing and defining clinically meaningful CRPS subtypes, with the ultimate goal of developing targeted and enhanced treatments for CRPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lone Knudsen
- National Rehabilitation Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lana Santoro
- Wheelock College of Education and Human Development, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephen Bruehl
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Florian Brunner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rheumatology, Balgrist University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
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Mangnus TJP, Bharwani KD, Dik WA, Baart SJ, Dirckx M, Huygen FJPM. Is there an association between serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor levels and syndrome severity in persistent Complex Regional Pain Syndrome? PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2023; 24:1234-1243. [PMID: 37335874 PMCID: PMC10628980 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnad081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A potentially useful biomarker for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is the serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) level, which is a marker for T-cell activation. Elevated serum sIL-2R levels have been described in CRPS patients compared to healthy controls. In T-cell mediated inflammatory diseases such as sarcoidosis and rheumatoid arthritis, the serum sIL-2R levels correlate with disease severity. In this study, we investigate whether an association exists between serum sIL-2R levels in CRPS patients and CRPS severity. METHODS A cross-sectional cohort study was conducted in a tertiary pain referral center in the Netherlands. Adult CRPS patients diagnosed by the IASP criteria were included between October 2018 until October 2022. The main study parameters were serum sIL-2R levels and the CRPS severity score. RESULTS Fifty-three CRPS patients were included with a mean syndrome duration of 84 months (Q3 - Q1:180 - 48). The majority had persistent CRPS with a syndrome duration >1 year (n = 52, 98%). The median pain Numerical Rating Score (NRS) was 7 (Q3 - Q1: 8 - 5) and the mean CRPS severity score was 11 (SD ± 2.3). The median serum sIL-2R level was 330 U/mL (Q3 - Q1:451 - 256). No statistically significant correlation was observed between serum sIL-2R levels and the CRPS severity score (rs = 0.15, P = .28). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that serum sIL-2R levels cannot be used as a biomarker for syndrome severity in persistent CRPS (syndrome duration >1 year). Serial measurements of serum sIL-2R from early CRPS to persistent CRPS are needed to investigate whether serum sIL-2R levels can be used to monitor T-cell mediated inflammatory syndrome activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J P Mangnus
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Krishna D Bharwani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willem A Dik
- Laboratory Medical Immunology, Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sara J Baart
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike Dirckx
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J P M Huygen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Shin WC, Kim H, Chung WS. Traditional Chinese medicine for foot pain in a patient with complex regional pain syndrome: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:7424-7431. [PMID: 37969454 PMCID: PMC10643069 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i30.7424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is characterized by pain as well as sensory, motor, and sudomotor disorders. Generally, it is classified into two types CRPS-I and CRPS-II. There is no single diagnostic test or treatment approach for CRPS, and a multidisciplinary approach is gaining attention to improve patients' symptoms and their quality of life. CASE SUMMARY A 35-year-old woman with an unremarkable medical history sought treatment for CRPS at a hospital of Korean medicine. During her first visit, she was wheelchair-bound due to severe pain in her left lower extremity. She had edema and discoloration of the left foot. She was treated with a combination of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) approaches, including acupuncture, moxibustion, pharmacopuncture, and herbal decoction, for approximately 20 sessions. The foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) and visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain were evaluated, along with general signs and functions. Her symptoms, signs, FAOS, and VAS scores improved after treatment, with a significant 7-degree decrease in the VAS score and a 62-point increase in the FAOS score. Additionally, the foot swelling and discoloration gradually resolved. During the phone follow-up, 5 mo after the last visit, additional improvements in outcomes were observed. CONCLUSION Combined TCM treatment may be a reasonable and safe option for alleviating symptoms and improving function in patients with CRPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo-Chul Shin
- Clinical Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, South Korea
| | - Hyungsuk Kim
- Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, South Korea
| | - Won-Seok Chung
- Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, South Korea
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Harnik MA, Kesselring P, Ott A, Urman RD, Luedi MM. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and the Value of Early Detection. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:417-427. [PMID: 37410335 PMCID: PMC10462545 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01124-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this narrative review is to describe the current understanding of the pathology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), as well as diagnostic standards and therapeutic options. We will then make the case for early recognition and management. RECENT FINDINGS CRPS remains an enigmatic pain syndrome, comprising several subtypes. Recent recommendations clarify diagnostic ambiguities and emphasize the importance of standardized assessment and therapy. Awareness of CRPS should be raised to promote prevention, early detection, and rapid escalation of therapy in refractory cases. Comorbidities and health costs (i.e., the socioeconomic impact) must also be addressed early to prevent negative consequences for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Alexander Harnik
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Kesselring
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Ott
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Richard D. Urman
- Department of Anaesthesiology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Markus M. Luedi
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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Limerick G, Christo DK, Tram J, Moheimani R, Manor J, Chakravarthy K, Karri J, Christo PJ. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Evidence-Based Advances in Concepts and Treatments. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:269-298. [PMID: 37421541 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01130-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review presents the most current information about the epidemiology of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), classification and diagnostic criteria, childhood CRPS, subtypes, pathophysiology, conventional and less conventional treatments, and preventive strategies. RECENT FINDINGS CRPS is a painful disorder with multifactorial pathophysiology. The data describe sensitization of the central and peripheral nervous systems, inflammation, possible genetic factors, sympatho-afferent coupling, autoimmunity, and mental health factors as contributors to the syndrome. In addition to conventional subtypes (type I and type II), cluster analyses have uncovered other proposed subtypes. Prevalence of CRPS is approximately 1.2%, female gender is consistently associated with a higher risk of development, and substantial physical, emotional, and financial costs can result from the syndrome. Children with CRPS seem to benefit from multifaceted physical therapy leading to a high percentage of symptom-free patients. The best available evidence along with standard clinical practice supports pharmacological agents, physical and occupational therapy, sympathetic blocks for engaging physical restoration, steroids for acute CRPS, neuromodulation, ketamine, and intrathecal baclofen as therapeutic approaches. There are many emerging treatments that can be considered as a part of individualized, patient-centered care. Vitamin C may be preventive. CRPS can lead to progressively painful sensory and vascular changes, edema, limb weakness, and trophic disturbances, all of which substantially erode healthy living. Despite some progress in research, more comprehensive basic science investigation is needed to clarify the molecular mechanisms of the disease so that targeted treatments can be developed for better outcomes. Incorporating a variety of standard therapies with different modes of action may offer the most effective analgesia. Introducing less conventional approaches may also be helpful when traditional treatments fail to provide sufficient improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Limerick
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Dana K Christo
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Jennifer Tram
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - John Manor
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | | | - Jay Karri
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Paul J Christo
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
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Zhu H, Wen B, Xu L, Huang Y. Identification of Potential Inflammation-Related Genes and Key Pathways Associated with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050772. [PMID: 37238642 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain that affects the extremities after a trauma or nerve injury with no definite established treatment. The mechanisms mediating CRPS are not completely elucidated. Thus, we conducted a bioinformatics analysis to identify hub genes and key pathways to determine strategies for more effective treatments of CRPS. Finally, there is only one expression profile of GSE47063 in terms of homo sapiens-based CRPS from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, which included four patients and five controls. We explored the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the dataset and conducted Gene Ontology (GO) functional and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis of the potential hub genes. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was also established; then, according to the score of each hub genes, we used R software to draw the nomogram model to predict the rate of CRPS. Furthermore, GSEA analysis was estimated and assessed by the normalized enrichment score (NES). From the GO and KEGG analysis, we identified the top five hub genes (MMP9, PTGS2, CXCL8, OSM, TLN1); all of the selected DEGs were mainly enriched in their inflammatory response. In addition, the GSEA analysis showed complement and coagulation cascades also play an important role in CRPS. This study, to our knowledge, is the first to conduct further PPI network and GSEA analyses. Thus, targeting excessive inflammation could offer new therapeutic methods for CRPS and related physical and psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Bei Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yuguang Huang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
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Wijaya LK, Morici MV, Stumbles PA, Finch PM, Drummond PD. Stimulation of alpha-1 adrenoceptors may intensify cutaneous inflammation in complex regional pain syndrome. Pain 2023; 164:771-781. [PMID: 35994594 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Alpha-1 adrenoceptors are overexpressed in the epidermis of a subgroup of patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Activating α 1 -adrenoceptors in epidermal cells increases production of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6), a mediator of inflammation. To investigate whether this might exacerbate inflammation in CRPS, primary keratinocytes or dermal fibroblasts were cultured from skin biopsies obtained from the affected limb of 25 patients and a similar site in 28 controls. The fundamental proinflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor alpha, was administered for 24 hours to initiate inflammation. After this, cells were incubated for 6 hours with the α 1 -adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine. Exposure to tumor necrosis factor alpha induced proinflammatory cytokine mRNA production and protein secretion in keratinocytes and fibroblasts and enhanced α 1B -adrenoceptor mRNA expression in keratinocytes. Additional stimulation of α 1 adrenoceptors with phenylephrine increased the production of IL-6 mRNA and protein secretion in both cell types. Under all conditions, gene and protein α 1 -adrenoceptor levels and cytokine gene expression and protein secretion were similar, overall, in patients and controls, except for abnormally high α 1 -adrenoceptor protein levels in the keratinocytes of 3 of 17 patients. These findings suggest that persistent inflammation in CRPS is not due to dysfunction of skin cells but is a normal response to extrinsic signals. After α 1 -adrenoceptor stimulation of keratinocytes, increases in IL-6 mRNA but not protein were proportional to basal α 1 -adrenoceptor protein levels. Skin cells play an important role in persistent inflammation in CRPS. Potentially, a positive feedback loop between α 1 -adrenoceptors and IL-6 production in skin cells contributes to this inflammatory state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda K Wijaya
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Australia
| | - Michael V Morici
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Australia
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Philip A Stumbles
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Australia
| | - Philip M Finch
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Peter D Drummond
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
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Louis MH, Meyer C, Legrain V, Berquin A. Biological and psychological early prognostic factors in complex regional pain syndrome: A systematic review. Eur J Pain 2023; 27:338-352. [PMID: 36516373 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.2068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Several risk factors for the onset of CRPS have been found, but evidence for prognostic factors associated with the progression of this condition remains sparse. However, the detection and management of these factors are necessary to design secondary prevention strategies. The objective of this systematic review was to identify prognostic factors in adult individuals with early CRPS. DATABASE AND DATA TREATMENT PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library and Scopus, were published between January 1990 and November 2021. Two independent investigators selected cross-sectional and longitudinal studies looking at early (<12 weeks from onset) prognostic factors for pain, CRPS severity score, disability, return to work, or quality of life. The quality in prognostic studies (QUIPS) tool was used to assess the risk of bias. A qualitative meta-synthesis was performed. RESULTS Out of 4652 different articles, six studies met the inclusion criteria. We identified 21 early factors associated with a poorer prognosis in type I CRPS. We found moderate evidence to support six of them: higher pain intensity, self-rated disability, anxiety, pain-related fear, being a female and high-energy triggering event. Only two studies had an overall low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS This study showed an important lack of information on early prognostic factors in CRPS. Only one article investigated the link with psychological characteristics. There is a crucial need for larger studies, with a well-defined population using validated measures. SIGNIFICANCE This systematic review highlights the lack of knowledge about early prognostic factors in CRPS. A few putative prognostic factors were identified. Most of the moderate evidence is related to a single cohort. Future research is required to find out which patients are vulnerable to chronification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc-Henri Louis
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Caroline Meyer
- CHU UCL Namur site Godinne, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yvoir, Belgium
| | - Valéry Legrain
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Louvain Bionics, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Anne Berquin
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Cliniques Universitaires UCL Saint-Luc, Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Brussels, Belgium
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15
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Kriek N, de Vos CC, Groeneweg JG, Baart SJ, Huygen FJPM. Allodynia, Hyperalgesia, (Quantitative) Sensory Testing and Conditioned Pain Modulation in Patients With Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Before and After Spinal Cord Stimulation Therapy. Neuromodulation 2023; 26:78-86. [PMID: 36050204 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurom.2022.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic debilitating disease characterized by sensory abnormalities. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an effective therapy for CRPS, but few studies have investigated the effects of SCS therapy on sensory characteristics. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of SCS on allodynia, hyperalgesia, electrical quantitative sensory testing (QST) parameters, and conditioned pain modulation (CPM) effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study is part of a multicenter randomized controlled trial (ISRCTN 36655259). Patients with CRPS in one extremity and eligible for SCS were included. The outcome parameters allodynia (symptom and sign), hyperalgesia (symptom), sensory thresholds with QST, CPM effect, and pain scores were tested before and after three months of SCS (40-Hz tonic SCS). Both the CRPS-affected extremity and the contralateral, clinically unaffected extremity were used to test three sensory thresholds with electrical QST: current perception threshold (CPT), pain perception threshold (PPT), and pain tolerance threshold (PTT). The PTT also was used as a test stimulus for the CPM paradigm both before and after the conditioning ice-water test. Nonparametric testing was used for all statistical analyses. RESULTS In total, 31 patients were included for analysis. Pain, allodynia (sign and symptom), and hyperalgesia (symptom) were all significantly reduced after SCS therapy. On the unaffected side, none of the QST thresholds (CPT, PPT, and PTT) was significantly altered after SCS therapy. However, the CPT on the CRPS-affected side was significantly increased after SCS therapy. A CPM effect was present both before and after SCS. CONCLUSIONS Standard 40-Hz tonic SCS significantly reduces pain, hyperalgesia, and allodynia in patients with CRPS. These findings suggest that SCS therapy should not be withheld from patients who suffer from allodynia and hyperalgesia, which contradicts previous findings derived from retrospective analysis and animal research. ISRCTN Registry: The ISRCTN registration number for the study is ISRCTN 36655259.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Kriek
- Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Cecile C de Vos
- Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Johannes G Groeneweg
- Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sara J Baart
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frank J P M Huygen
- Center for Pain Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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16
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Karpin H, Vatine JJ, Bachar Kirshenboim Y, Markezana A, Weissman-Fogel I. Central Sensitization and Psychological State Distinguishing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome from Other Chronic Limb Pain Conditions: A Cluster Analysis Model. Biomedicines 2022; 11:biomedicines11010089. [PMID: 36672597 PMCID: PMC9856064 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) taxonomy has been updated with reported subtypes and is defined as primary pain alongside other chronic limb pain (CLP) conditions. We aimed at identifying CRPS clinical phenotypes that distinguish CRPS from other CLP conditions. Cluster analysis was carried out to classify 61 chronic CRPS and 31 CLP patients based on evoked pain (intensity of hyperalgesia and dynamic allodynia, allodynia area, and after-sensation) and psychological (depression, kinesiophobia, mental distress, and depersonalization) measures. Pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and TNF-α serum levels were measured. Three cluster groups were created: ‘CRPS’ (78.7% CRPS; 6.5% CLP); ‘CLP’ (64.5% CLP; 4.9% CRPS), and ‘Mixed’ (16.4% CRPS; 29% CLP). The groups differed in all measures, predominantly in allodynia and hyperalgesia (p < 0.001, η² > 0.58). ‘CRPS’ demonstrated higher psychological and evoked pain measures vs. ‘CLP’. ‘Mixed’ exhibited similarities to ‘CRPS’ in psychological profile and to ‘CLP’ in evoked pain measures. The serum level of TNF-αwas higher in the ‘CRPS’ vs. ‘CLP’ (p < 0.001) groups. In conclusion, pain hypersensitivity reflecting nociplastic pain mechanisms and psychological state measures created different clinical phenotypes of CRPS and possible CRPS subtypes, which distinguishes them from other CLP conditions, with the pro-inflammatory TNF-α cytokine as an additional potential biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Karpin
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
- Reuth Rehabilitation Hospital, Tel Aviv 6772829, Israel
| | - Jean-Jacques Vatine
- Reuth Rehabilitation Hospital, Tel Aviv 6772829, Israel
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Yishai Bachar Kirshenboim
- Reuth Rehabilitation Hospital, Tel Aviv 6772829, Israel
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Aurelia Markezana
- Goldyne Savad Institute of Gene Therapy, Hadassah Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Irit Weissman-Fogel
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel
- Correspondence:
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Melf-Marzi A, Böhringer B, Wiehle M, Hausteiner-Wiehle C. Modern Principles of Diagnosis and Treatment in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 119:879-886. [PMID: 36482756 PMCID: PMC10011717 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.m2022.0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Background: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a relatively common complication, occurring in 5% of cases after injury or surgery, particularly in the limbs. The incidence of CPRS is around 5-26/100 000. The latest revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11) now categorizes CRPS as a primary pain condition of multifactorial origin, rather than a disease of the skeletal system or the autonomic nervous system. METHODS Method: Based on a selective search of the literature, we summarize current principles for the diagnosis and treatment of CRPS. RESULTS Results: Regional findings in CRPS are accompanied by systemic symptoms, especially by neurocognitive disorders of body perception and of symptom processing. The therapeutic focus is shifting from predominantly passive peripheral measures to early active treatments acting both centrally and peripherally. The treatment is centered on physiotherapy and occupational therapy to improve sensory perception, strength, (fine) motor skills, and sensorimotor integration/ body perception. This is supported by stepped psychological interventions to reduce anxiety and avoidance behavior, medication to decrease inflammation and pain, passive physical measures for reduction of edema and of pain, and medical aids to improve functioning in daily life. Interventional procedures should be limited to exceptional cases and only be performed in specialized centers. Spinal cord and dorsal root ganglion stimulation, respectively, are the interventions with the best evidence. CONCLUSION Conclusion: The modern principles for the diagnosis and treatment of CRPS consider both, physiological and psychological mechanisms, with the primary goal of restoring function and participation. More research is needed to strengthen the evidence base in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Melf-Marzi
- Department for BG Rehabilitation; Outpatient CRPS Clinic; BG Trauma Center Murnau; Department for Anesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy; Multimodal Pain Therapy; BG Trauma Center Murnau; Department for Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology and Stroke Unit; BG Trauma Center Murnau; Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich
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Bruehl S, Billings FT, Anderson S, Polkowski G, Shinar A, Schildcrout J, Shi Y, Milne G, Dematteo A, Mishra P, Harden RN. Preoperative Predictors of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Outcomes in the 6 Months Following Total Knee Arthroplasty. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022; 23:1712-1723. [PMID: 35470089 PMCID: PMC9560974 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This prospective observational study evaluated preoperative predictors of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) outcomes in the 6 months following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Participants were n = 110 osteoarthritis patients (64.5% female) undergoing unilateral TKA with no prior CRPS history. Domains of negative affect (depression, anxiety, catastrophizing), pain (intensity, widespread pain, temporal summation of pain [TSP]), pain interference, sleep disturbance, and pro-inflammatory status (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-a]) were assessed preoperatively. CRPS outcomes at 6-week and 6-month follow-up included the continuous CRPS Severity Score (CSS) and dichotomous CRPS diagnoses (2012 IASP criteria). At 6 months, 12.7% of participants met CRPS criteria, exhibiting a "warm CRPS" phenotype. Six-week CSS scores were predicted by greater preoperative depression, anxiety, catastrophizing, TSP, pain intensity, sleep disturbance, and TNF-a (P's < .05). Provisional CRPS diagnosis at 6 weeks was predicted by higher preoperative TSP, sleep disturbance, and TNF-a (P's < .05). CSS scores at 6 months were predicted by more widespread and intense preoperative pain, and higher preoperative TSP, pain interference, and TNF-a (P's < .01). CRPS diagnosis at 6 months was predicted only by more widespread and intense pain preoperatively (P's < .05). Risk for CRPS following TKA appears to involve preoperative central sensitization and inflammatory mechanisms. Preoperative negative affect is unlikely to directly influence long-term CRPS risk. PERSPECTIVE: This article identifies preoperative predictors of CRPS features at 6 months following total knee arthroplasty, including more widespread pain and higher pain intensity, temporal summation of pain, pain interference, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels. Findings suggest the importance of central sensitization and inflammatory mechanisms in CRPS risk following tissue trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Bruehl
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.
| | - Frederic T Billings
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Sara Anderson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Gregory Polkowski
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Andrew Shinar
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jonathan Schildcrout
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Yaping Shi
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Ginger Milne
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Anthony Dematteo
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Puneet Mishra
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - R Norman Harden
- Departments of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy and Human Movement Science, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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Lunden LK, Kleggetveit IP, Schmelz M, Jorum E. Cold allodynia is correlated to paroxysmal and evoked mechanical pain in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Scand J Pain 2022; 22:533-542. [PMID: 35429156 DOI: 10.1515/sjpain-2021-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mechanisms of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) are still debated. Identifying subgroups of patients have been attempted in the hope of linking clinical findings to possible mechanisms. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether subgroups of CRPS (based on quantitative sensory testing (QST)-results) differed with respect to different characteristics of pain like spontaneous ongoing or paroxysmal pain and mechanical dynamic allodynia. METHODS 61 CRPS-patients (type 1 and 2) were examined clinically and with QST, in affected and contralateral extremity, with assessment of thresholds for warmth, cold and heat-and cold pain. RESULTS 43 patients (20 men, 23 men) were diagnosed with CRPS 1 (70.5%) and 18 patients (8 women and 10 men) with CRPS 2 (29.5%). Three subgroups were defined based on thermal thresholds; A (thermal allodynia 22.9%), B (thermal hyposensitivity 37.3%), C (thermal allodynia and hyposensitivity 39.3%). Paroxysmal pain was more prevalent in patients with thermal allodynia (merging group A + C, 25/38-65.8%) compared to patients without thermal allodynia (group B, 5/23-21.7%) (p-value=0.00085). CONCLUSIONS We suggest that cold allodynia is based on hyper-excitability of very superficial skin nociceptors. The correlation between paroxysmal pain, allodynia to light touch and cold allodynia suggests that activity in those peripheral nociceptors can drive both, paroxysmal pain and spinal sensitization leading to stroke evoked allodynia. Mechanistically, the physical cold stimulus can unmask disease-related hyperexcitability by closure of temperature-sensitive potassium channels or induction of resurgent currents. Small fiber degeneration alone may not be the crucial mechanism in CRPS, nor explain pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Kristian Lunden
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Inge Petter Kleggetveit
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Department of Experimental Pain Research, MCTN, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ellen Jorum
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Bertels Z, Mangutov E, Conway C, Siegersma K, Asif S, Shah P, Huck N, Tawfik VL, Pradhan AA. Migraine and peripheral pain models show differential alterations in neuronal complexity. Headache 2022; 62:780-791. [PMID: 35676889 PMCID: PMC9543775 DOI: 10.1111/head.14352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective Our laboratory has recently shown that there is a decrease in neuronal complexity in head pain processing regions in mouse models of chronic migraine‐associated pain and aura. Importantly, restoration of this neuronal complexity corresponds with anti‐migraine effects of known and experimental pharmacotherapies. The objective of the current study was to expand this work and examine other brain regions involved with pain or emotional processing. We also investigated the generalizability of our findings by analyzing neuronal cytoarchitectural changes in a model of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a peripheral pain disorder. Methods We used the nitroglycerin (NTG) model of chronic migraine‐associated pain in which mice receive 10 mg/kg NTG every other day for 9 days. Cortical spreading depression (CSD), a physiological corelate of migraine aura, was evoked in anesthetized mice using KCl. CRPS was induced by tibial fracture followed by casting. Neuronal cytoarchitecture was visualized with Golgi stain and analyzed with Simple Neurite Tracer. Results In the NTG model, we previously showed decreased neuronal complexity in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) and periaqueductal gray (PAG). In contrast, we found increased neuronal complexity in the thalamus and no change in the amygdala or caudate putamen in this study. Following CSD, we observed decreased neuronal complexity in the PAG, in line with decreases in the somatosensory cortex and TNC reported with this model previously. In the CRPS model there was decreased neuronal complexity in the hippocampus, as reported by others; increased complexity in the PAG; and no change within the somatosensory cortex. Conclusions Collectively these results demonstrate that alterations in neuronal complexity are a feature of both chronic migraine and chronic CRPS. However, each type of pain presents a unique cytoarchitectural signature, which may provide insight on how these pain states differentially transition from acute to chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachariah Bertels
- Department of Psychiatry University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Elizaveta Mangutov
- Department of Psychiatry University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Catherine Conway
- Department of Psychiatry University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Kendra Siegersma
- Department of Psychiatry University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Sarah Asif
- Department of Psychiatry University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Pal Shah
- Department of Psychiatry University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
| | - Nolan Huck
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative & Pain Medicine Stanford University Stanford California USA
| | - Vivianne L. Tawfik
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative & Pain Medicine Stanford University Stanford California USA
| | - Amynah A. Pradhan
- Department of Psychiatry University of Illinois at Chicago Chicago Illinois USA
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21
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Harden RN, McCabe CS, Goebel A, Massey M, Suvar T, Grieve S, Bruehl S. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Practical Diagnostic and Treatment Guidelines, 5th Edition. PAIN MEDICINE (MALDEN, MASS.) 2022; 23:S1-S53. [PMID: 35687369 PMCID: PMC9186375 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnac046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
There have been some modest recent advancements in the research of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, yet the amount and quality of the work in this complicated multifactorial disease remains low (with some notable exceptions; e.g., the recent work on the dorsal root ganglion stimulation). The semi-systematic (though in some cases narrative) approach to review is necessary so that we might treat our patients while waiting for "better research." This semi-systematic review was conducted by experts in the field, (deliberately) some of whom are promising young researchers supplemented by the experience of "elder statesman" researchers, who all mention the system they have used to examine the literature. What we found is generally low- to medium-quality research with small numbers of subjects; however, there are some recent exceptions to this. The primary reason for this paucity of research is the fact that this is a rare disease, and it is very difficult to acquire a sufficient sample size for statistical significance using traditional statistical approaches. Several larger trials have failed, probably due to using the broad general diagnostic criteria (the "Budapest" criteria) in a multifactorial/multi-mechanism disease. Responsive subsets can often be identified in these larger trials, but not sufficient to achieve statistically significant results in the general diagnostic grouping. This being the case the authors have necessarily included data from less compelling protocols, including trials such as case series and even in some instances case reports/empirical information. In the humanitarian spirit of treating our often desperate patients with this rare syndrome, without great evidence, we must take what data we can find (as in this work) and tailor a treatment regime for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Norman Harden
- Departments of PM&R and Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University
| | - Candida S McCabe
- University of the West of England, Stapleton, Bristol, UK
- Dorothy House Hospice, Bradford-on-Avon, Wilts, UK
| | - Andreas Goebel
- Pain Research Institute, Faculty of Health and Life Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Michael Massey
- CentraCare Neurosciences Pain Center, CentraCare, St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tolga Suvar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Sharon Grieve
- Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, Bath, UK
| | - Stephen Bruehl
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Centers, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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22
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Reinhold AK, Salvador E, Förster CY, Birklein F, Rittner HL. Microvascular Barrier Protection by microRNA-183 via FoxO1 Repression: A Pathway Disturbed in Neuropathy and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022; 23:967-980. [PMID: 34974173 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Blood nerve barrier disruption and edema are common in neuropathic pain as well as in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). MicroRNAs (miRNA) are epigenetic multitarget switches controlling neuronal and non-neuronal cells in pain. The miR-183 complex attenuates hyperexcitability in nociceptors, but additional non-neuronal effects via transcription factors could contribute as well. This study explored exosomal miR-183 in CRPS and murine neuropathy, its effect on the microvascular barrier via transcription factor FoxO1 and tight junction protein claudin-5, and its antihyperalgesic potential. Sciatic miR-183 decreased after CCI. Substitution with perineural miR-183 mimic attenuated mechanical hypersensitivity and restored blood nerve barrier function. In vitro, serum from CCI mice und CRPS patients weakened the microvascular barrier of murine cerebellar endothelial cells, increased active FoxO1 and reduced claudin-5, concomitant with a lack of exosomal miR-183 in CRPS patients. Cellular stress also compromised the microvascular barrier which was rescued either by miR-183 mimic via FoxO1 repression or by prior silencing of Foxo1. PERSPECTIVE: Low miR-183 leading to barrier impairment via FoxO1 and subsequent claudin-5 suppression is a new aspect in the pathophysiology of CRPS and neuropathic pain. This pathway might help untangle the wide symptomatic range of CRPS and nurture further research into miRNA mimics or FoxO1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Kristin Reinhold
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency Care and Pain Management, Center for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ellaine Salvador
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency Care and Pain Management, Center for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, Würzburg, Germany; University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Neurosurgery, Tumorbiology Laboratory, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Carola Y Förster
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency Care and Pain Management, Center for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Frank Birklein
- Mainz University Hospitals, Department of Neurology, Mainz, Germany
| | - Heike L Rittner
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency Care and Pain Management, Center for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, Würzburg, Germany.
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Xu Y, Jiang Q, Xu X, Pu S, Lv Y, Li C, Wu J, Du D. The Tourniquet Ischemia Test Effectively Predicts the Efficacy of Lumbar Sympathetic Block in Patients with Lower Extremity Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1. J Pain Res 2022; 15:1659-1667. [PMID: 35698569 PMCID: PMC9188397 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s365954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuropathic pain is the most common clinical sign of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Currently, lumbar sympathetic block (LSB) is commonly utilized in lower extremity CRPS that has failed to respond to medication therapy and physical therapy, but its effectiveness is unknown. The tourniquet ischemia test (IT) can distinguish between two types of CRPS: IT-positive CRPS and IT-negative CRPS. Objective The aim of the study was to investigate whether LSB improves pain scores in patients with lower extremity CRPS-1 and to screen factors to predict its efficacy. Study Design Prospective clinical observational study. Setting Pain management center. Subjects Forty-three patients diagnosed with lower extremity CRPS-1 using the Budapest criteria were included as participants. Methods Forty-three CRPS-1 patients were treated with LSB therapy, and all of them underwent a tourniquet ischemia test (IT) before undergoing LSB therapy. LSB therapy was performed using a combination of ultrasonography and fluoroscopy. Then, numeric rating scale (NRS) scores and the symptom relief rates of patients were evaluated at 1, 4, and 12 weeks. Finally, peripheral blood inflammatory cytokine samples were collected before and after the LSB treatment. Results At 4 weeks after the treatment, the total effective symptom relief rate of LSB on CRPS-1 was 25.6% (11/43), with 52.6% (10/19) of IT(+) patients and 4.2% (1/24) of IT(-) patients. There was a significant difference between the IT(-) and IT(+) groups (P = 0.001). The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the response to the tourniquet IT was the only significant independent predictor of sympathetic block success (p = 0.007). Conclusion Tourniquet IT is a simple, safe and effective test to distinguish patients with lower extremity CRPS-1. The response to the tourniquet IT is a reliable predictor of LSB effectiveness in lower extremity CRPS-1 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongming Xu
- Department of Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingqing Jiang
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoliang Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cixi People’s Hospital, Cixi, Zhejiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaofeng Pu
- Department of Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yingying Lv
- Department of Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chen Li
- Department of Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junzhen Wu
- Department of Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dongping Du
- Department of Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Dongping Du; Junzhen Wu, Department of Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, 600 Yishan Road, Shanghai, 200233, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-21-24058896, Fax +86-21-240598896, Email ;
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24
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Rebhorn C, Dimova V, Birklein F. [Complex regional pain syndrome-An update]. Schmerz 2022; 36:141-149. [PMID: 35316391 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-022-00641-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a pain disorder that develops in the hands or feet after injury. Currently, two types are differentiated, CRPS I without and CRPS II with nerve lesions as well as with either an initially warm or an initially cold subtype, depending on the clinical symptoms. After trauma a certain amount of inflammatory reaction is considered physiological. In acute CRPS this inflammation persists for months and is maintained by diverse inflammatory mediators in peripheral tissue and in blood. This persisting inflammation leads to a sensitization of the nociceptive system, causes somatic cells to proliferate and gives rise to a disrupted endothelial function. The treatment concept aims to antagonize the pathophysiologic components and includes anti-inflammatory and analgetic treatment, mobilization and restoration of the sensorimotor function of the affected limb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cora Rebhorn
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland.
| | - Violeta Dimova
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland
| | - Frank Birklein
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland
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25
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Fernandes PF, Galassi TDO, Horewicz VV, Salgado ASI, Mack JM, Baldança HDS, Ferreira da Silva AP, Bruehl S, Bittencourt EB, Seim LA, Martins DF, Bobinski F. Immunoregulatory Effect of Preventive Supplementation of Omega-3 Fatty Acid in a Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I Model in Mice. Front Integr Neurosci 2022; 16:818692. [PMID: 35391753 PMCID: PMC8980433 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2022.818692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveComplex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is usually triggered by trauma or a surgical procedure, and it typically becomes an established one after an intense inflammatory process with chronic pain and edema as the main symptoms. Available treatments for CRPS have low efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and immunoregulatory effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation on paw edema and anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines and macrophage phenotypes in the chronic post-ischemia pain (CPIP) preclinical model of CRPS-Type I.MethodsFemale Swiss mice were supplemented with omega-3, corn oil, or saline and then submitted to the CPIP model of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Supplementation was carried out for 30 days prior to and up to 2 or 15 days after the induction of CPIP, according to experimental protocols. The supplementation protocol included 1,500 mg/kg of omega-3 or corn oil through an intragastric route (gavage). Paw edema, interleukin- (IL-) 4, IL-10, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were then measured in the paw skin and muscle by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and macrophage phenotypes (M1 and M2) assessed in the paw muscle by Western blotting.ResultsThe CPIP model induced an increase in paw thickness up to 72 h post-I/R. Mice supplemented with omega-3 compared to the saline group displayed reduced edema but neither altered skin IL-4 or skin and muscle TGF-β1, TNF, and MCP-1 concentrations, nor did they exhibit significantly altered muscle macrophage phenotype on the 2nd-day post-CPIP. However, omega-3 supplementation reversed the I/R-related reduction in IL-4 in the paw muscle compared to groups supplemented with saline and corn oil. Furthermore, omega-3 promoted the reduction of IL-10 levels in the paw skin, compared to animals with lesions supplemented with saline, until the 2nd-day post-CPIP. On the 15th day post-CPIP, IL-10 was significantly increased in the muscle of animals supplemented with omega-3 compared to the saline group.ConclusionThe results suggest that omega-3 PUFA supplementation has anti-inflammatory effects in the CPIP model of CRPS-Type I, significantly reducing paw edema and regulating concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-4 and IL-10.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Franson Fernandes
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
| | - Taynah de Oliveira Galassi
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
| | - Verônica Vargas Horewicz
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
| | | | - Josiel Mileno Mack
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, Department of Medical Clinic, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
| | - Heloiza dos Santos Baldança
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
- Faculty of Physical Therapy, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Ferreira da Silva
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
| | - Stephen Bruehl
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | | | - Lynsey A. Seim
- Department of Hospital Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Daniel Fernandes Martins
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
| | - Franciane Bobinski
- Experimental Neuroscience Laboratory (LaNEx), Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Palhoça, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Franciane Bobinski,
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26
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From a Symptom-Based to a Mechanism-Based Pharmacotherapeutic Treatment in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. Drugs 2022; 82:511-531. [PMID: 35247200 PMCID: PMC9016036 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-022-01685-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating painful condition of a distal extremity that can develop after tissue damage. CRPS is thought to be a multimechanism syndrome and ideally the most prominent mechanism(s) should be targeted by drugs in an individually tailored manner. This review gives an overview of the action and evidence of current and future pharmacotherapeutic options for CRPS. The available options are grouped in four categories by their therapeutic actions on the CRPS mechanisms, i.e. inflammation, central sensitisation, vasomotor disturbances and motor disturbances. More knowledge about the underlying mechanisms of CRPS helps to specifically target important CRPS mechanisms. In the future, objective biomarkers could potentially aid in selecting appropriate mechanism-based drugs in order to increase the effectiveness of CRPS treatment. Using this approach, current and future pharmacotherapeutic options for CRPS should be studied in multicentre trials to prove their efficacy. The ultimate goal is to shift the symptom-based selection of therapy into a mechanism-based selection of therapy in CRPS.
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Bharwani KD, Kersten AB, Stone AL, Birklein F, Bruehl S, Dirckx M, Drummond PD, Gierthmühlen J, Goebel A, Knudsen L, Huygen FJPM. Denying the Truth Does Not Change the Facts: A Systematic Analysis of Pseudoscientific Denial of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. J Pain Res 2021; 14:3359-3376. [PMID: 34737631 PMCID: PMC8558034 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s326638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Several articles have claimed that complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) does not exist. Although a minority view, it is important to understand the arguments presented in these articles. We conducted a systematic literature search to evaluate the methodological quality of articles that claim CRPS does not exist. We then examined and refuted the arguments supporting this claim using up-to-date scientific literature on CRPS. Methods A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL databases. Inclusion criteria for articles were (a) a claim made that CRPS does not exist or that CRPS is not a distinct diagnostic entity and (b) support of these claims with subsequent argument(s). The methodological quality of articles was assessed if possible. Results Nine articles were included for analysis: 4 narrative reviews, 2 personal views, 1 letter, 1 editorial and 1 case report. Seven points of controversy were used in these articles to argue that CRPS does not exist: 1) disagreement with the label “CRPS”; 2) the “unclear” pathophysiology; 3) the validity of the diagnostic criteria; 4) CRPS as a normal consequence of immobilization; 5) the role of psychological factors; 6) other identifiable causes for CRPS symptoms; and 7) the methodological quality of CRPS research. Conclusion The level of evidence for the claim that CRPS does not exist is very weak. Published accounts concluding that CRPS does not exist, in the absence of primary evidence to underpin them, can harm patients by encouraging dismissal of patients’ signs and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- K D Bharwani
- Center for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A B Kersten
- Center for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A L Stone
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - F Birklein
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - S Bruehl
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - M Dirckx
- Center for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - P D Drummond
- Discipline of Psychology, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - J Gierthmühlen
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department Neurology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - A Goebel
- Director of the Pain Research Institute Reader in Pain Medicine, University of Liverpool Honorary Consultant in Pain Medicine, Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - L Knudsen
- The National Rehabilitation Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - F J P M Huygen
- Center for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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28
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König S, Engl C, Bayer M, Escolano-Lozano F, Rittner H, Rebhorn C, Birklein F. Substance P Serum Degradation in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome - Another Piece of the Puzzle? THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 23:501-507. [PMID: 34678467 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In a previous study, we demonstrated that the serum peptidase system might be less efficient in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Since the neuropeptide substanc P (SP) contributes to inflammation in CRPS, we now investigated the metabolism of SP in CRPS specifically. An SP metabolism assay was performed in 24 CRPS patients, which constitute a subgroup of our previous investigation on BK degradation. In addition, we included 26 healthy controls (24 newly recruited plus 2 from our previous investigation), and 13 patients after limb trauma, who did not fulfil the CRPS diagnostic criteria (trauma controls, TC) were included. We adapted a thin layer chromatography assay (TLC) to quantify SP disappearance after incubation with 7.5 µL of serum. These results were compared with bradykinin (BK) metabolization to BK1-8 and BK1-5 fragments from our previous study. In addition, TC were clinically and quantitative sensory testing (QST) phenotyped; the phenotyping of CRPS patients was retrieved from our existing database. SP metabolism was less efficient in CRPS and TC patient serum vs human control (HC) serum (P < .03) suggesting reduced activity of the neutral endopeptidase (NEP) and/or the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). Together with the decreased occurrence of BK1-5 fragment in CRPS and TC, this suggests a reduced activation of the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). There was no clear clinical phenotype related to impaired SP degradation; duration of disease and gender were also not associated. Most importantly, results in TC did not differ from CRPS. Collectively, our current and previous experimental results suggest that limb trauma reduces serum peptidase metabolism of SP ex vivo, specifically serum ACE activity. However, this finding is not CRPS-specific and seems to be rather a long-term consequence of the trauma itself. PERSPECTIVE: The experimental data from this study further support the hypothesis that impaired metabolism of inflammatory peptides potentially contribute to the development of posttraumatic pain in CRPS or limb trauma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone König
- Core Unit Proteomics, Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Engl
- Core Unit Proteomics, Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Malte Bayer
- Core Unit Proteomics, Interdisciplinary Center for Clinical Research, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Fabiola Escolano-Lozano
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Heike Rittner
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Pain Medicine, Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency Medicine and Pain Therapy, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Cora Rebhorn
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Frank Birklein
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
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29
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Rebhorn C, Dimova V, Birklein F. [Complex regional pain syndrome-An update]. DER NERVENARZT 2021; 92:1075-1083. [PMID: 34542658 DOI: 10.1007/s00115-021-01186-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a pain disorder that develops in the hands or feet after injury. Currently, two types are differentiated, CRPS I without and CRPS II with nerve lesions as well as with either an initially warm or an initially cold subtype, depending on the clinical symptoms. After trauma a certain amount of inflammatory reaction is considered physiological. In acute CRPS this inflammation persists for months and is maintained by diverse inflammatory mediators in peripheral tissue and in blood. This persisting inflammation leads to a sensitization of the nociceptive system, causes somatic cells to proliferate and gives rise to a disrupted endothelial function. The treatment concept aims to antagonize the pathophysiologic components and includes anti-inflammatory and analgetic treatment, mobilization and restoration of the sensorimotor function of the affected limb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cora Rebhorn
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland.
| | - Violeta Dimova
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland
| | - Frank Birklein
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin der Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, 55131, Mainz, Deutschland
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30
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Moretti A, Gimigliano F, Paoletta M, Bertone M, Liguori S, Toro G, Iolascon G. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I Following Non-Orthopedic Surgery: Case Report and Narrative Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091596. [PMID: 34573938 PMCID: PMC8465880 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS I)-or algodystrophy-is a rare disease that usually occurs after a traumatic event. It is characterized by typical clinical findings such as severe and disabling pain disproportionate to the injury, functional limitations, as well as sensory and vasomotor alterations. However, some people do not report any injury associated with algodystrophy onset in personal history. We describe the management of an unusual case of CRPS I which occurred during the long-term follow-up of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) and performed a narrative review of algodystrophy in non-orthopedic surgery. A clinical case of a 44-year-old man with a spontaneous onset of CRPS I of the right ankle is presented. He did not refer to history of any memorable significant trigger event. Approximately 5 months before the onset of clinical manifestations, he received a PTCA via the right femoral approach. We suppose an association between CRPS and this procedure and propose a possible pathophysiologic mechanism. The patient was treated with intramuscular neridronate, which resulted in significant pain relief and improved his quality of life. A comprehensive clinical and instrumental evaluation in patients with CRPS is challenging but mandatory for a correct diagnosis. An extensive analysis of patient history is important for identifying any potential trigger event, including non-orthopedic procedures. Bone scan could have a pivotal role for improving diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in CRPS I. Neridronate was a safe and effective therapeutic approach for this patient, confirming the results of the high-quality evidence available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antimo Moretti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.B.); (S.L.); (G.T.); (G.I.)
| | - Francesca Gimigliano
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Marco Paoletta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.B.); (S.L.); (G.T.); (G.I.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Matteo Bertone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.B.); (S.L.); (G.T.); (G.I.)
| | - Sara Liguori
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.B.); (S.L.); (G.T.); (G.I.)
| | - Giuseppe Toro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.B.); (S.L.); (G.T.); (G.I.)
| | - Giovanni Iolascon
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (A.M.); (M.B.); (S.L.); (G.T.); (G.I.)
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31
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Drummond PD, Finch PM. Pupillary Reflexes in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Asymmetry to Arousal Stimuli Suggests an Ipsilateral Locus Coeruleus Deficit. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 23:131-140. [PMID: 34375745 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Converging lines of evidence suggest that autonomic and nociceptive pathways linked with the locus coeruleus are disrupted in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). To investigate this, pupillary dilatation to arousal stimuli (which reflects neural activity in the locus coeruleus) and pupillary reflexes to light were assessed in a cross-sectional study of 33 patients with CRPS. Moderately painful electrical shocks were delivered to the affected or contralateral limb and unilateral 110 dB SPL acoustic startle stimuli were delivered via headphones. To determine whether the acoustic startle stimuli inhibited shock-induced pain, startle stimuli were also administered bilaterally 200 ms before or after the electric shock. The pupils constricted briskly and symmetrically to bright light (500 lux) and dilated symmetrically in dim light (5 lux). However, the pupil on the CRPS-affected side was smaller than the contralateral pupil before and after the delivery of painless and painful arousal stimuli. Auditory sensitivity was greater on the affected than unaffected side but acoustic startle stimuli failed to inhibit shock-induced pain. Together, these findings suggest that neural activity in pathways linked with the locus coeruleus is compromised on the affected side in patients with CRPS. This may contribute to autonomic disturbances, auditory discomfort and pain. Perspective: The locus coeruleus is involved not only in modulation of pain but also regulates sensory traffic more broadly. Hence, fatigue of neural activity in the ipsilateral locus coeruleus might not only exacerbate pain and hyperalgesia in CRPS but could also contribute more generally to hemilateral disturbances in sensory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Drummond
- Discipline of Psychology and Healthy Ageing Research Centre, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Philip M Finch
- Discipline of Psychology and Healthy Ageing Research Centre, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
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Fitterer JW, Picelli A, Winston P. A Novel Approach to New-Onset Hemiplegic Shoulder Pain With Decreased Range of Motion Using Targeted Diagnostic Nerve Blocks: The ViVe Algorithm. Front Neurol 2021; 12:668370. [PMID: 34122312 PMCID: PMC8194087 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.668370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Hemiplegic shoulder pain (HSP) is the most common pain disorder after stroke with incidence estimates of 30–70% and associated with reductions in function, interference with rehabilitation, and a reduced quality of life. Onset may occur as soon as a week after stroke in 17% of patients. Management of HSP represents a complex treatment pathway with a lack of evidence to support one treatment. The pain has heterogeneous causes. In the acute setting, decreased range of motion in the shoulder can be due to early-onset spasticity, capsular pattern stiffness, glenohumeral pathology, or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). As contracture can form in up to 50% of patients after stroke, effective management of the painful shoulder and upper limb with decreased range of motion requires assessment of each possible contributor for effective treatment. The anesthetic diagnostic nerve block (DNB) is known to differentiate spasticity from contracture and other disorders of immobility and can be useful in determining an appropriate treatment pathway. Objective: To create a diagnostic algorithm to differentiate between the causes of HSP in the stiff, painful shoulder in the subacute setting using diagnostic techniques including the Budapest Criteria for CRPS and DNB for spasticity and pain generators. Results: Examination of each joint in the upper extremity with HSP may differentiate each diagnosis with the use of an algorithm. Pain and stiffness isolated to the shoulder may be differentiated as primary shoulder pathology; sensory suprascapular DNB or intra-articular/subacromial injection can assist in differentiating adhesive capsulitis, arthritis, or rotator cuff injury. CRPS may affect the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand and can be evaluated with the Budapest Criteria. Spasticity can be differentiated with the use of motor DNB. A combination of these disorders may cause HSP, and the proposed treatment algorithm may offer assistance in selecting a systematic treatment pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Fitterer
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Congress, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Alessandro Picelli
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Congress, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Section of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Neuromotor and Cognitive Rehabilitation Research Center, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Paul Winston
- Canadian Advances in Neuro-Orthopedics for Spasticity Congress, Victoria, BC, Canada.,Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of British Columbia, Victoria, BC, Canada
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Ten Brink AF, Goebel A, Berwick R, McCabe CS, Bultitude JH. Sensitivity to Ambient Temperature Increases in Fibromyalgia and CRPS. PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 21:3726-3729. [PMID: 32294187 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Antonia F Ten Brink
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Pain Research, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Andreas Goebel
- Pain Research Institute, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Richard Berwick
- Pain Research Institute, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Candida S McCabe
- Royal United Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bath, UK.,Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK.,The Florence Nightingale Foundation, London, UK
| | - Janet H Bultitude
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Pain Research, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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Johnston-Devin C, Oprescu F, Gray M, Wallis M. Patients Describe their Lived Experiences of Battling to Live with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2021; 22:1111-1128. [PMID: 33892156 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2021.03.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) has never comprehensively been examined from a lived experience perspective. Patients generally have a poorer quality of life than people with other chronic pain conditions. This study aimed to understand the essence of living with CRPS. Data were collected from 17 patients via in-depth interviews. Hermeneutic discussions with four health professionals generated deeper insights. Internet blogs and a book containing patient stories were included for theme verification and triangulation. CRPS is seen as a war-like experience and five themes were identified within the battle: "dealing with the unknown enemy", "building an armoury against a moving target", "battles within the war", "developing battle plans with allies" and "warrior or prisoner of war". Patients live with a chronic pain condition and experience problems unique to CRPS such as fear of pain extending to other parts of their body. Use of the model generated by this research may assist patient/clinician interactions and guide therapeutic discussions. Support for people living with CRPS does not always exist, and some healthcare professionals require additional education about the condition. Better health outcomes are experienced by patients when their personal situation and experiences are heard and understood by health care professionals. PERSPECTIVE: This article presents the lived experience of CRPS. This information and the model generated can help clinicians to better understand their patients and deliver appropriate patient-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Johnston-Devin
- School of Health and Sport Science, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia; School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Sciences, CQUniversity Australia, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Florin Oprescu
- School of Health and Sport Science, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Marion Gray
- School of Health and Sport Science, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia; School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD, Australia
| | - Marianne Wallis
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia; School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Bilinga, QLD, Australia
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Lunden LK, Jorum E. The challenge of recognizing severe pain and autonomic abnormalities for early diagnosis of CRPS. Scand J Pain 2021; 21:548-559. [PMID: 33838088 DOI: 10.1515/sjpain-2021-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a disabling usually post-traumatic pain condition. International guidelines emphasize early diagnosis for treatment and improved outcome. Early intense and persistent pain along with features of autonomic dysfunction in the first week's post-injury are early warning signs for development of CRPS. We have previously reported a delayed diagnosis of CRPS. The main purpose of the present study was to investigate possible causes of a delayed diagnosis, with a special focus of recognition of risk factors. METHODS A total of 52 CRPS 1 (without detectable nerve damage) and CRPS 2 (with evidence of nerve lesion) patients were included in the study. When examined at OUS-Rikshospitalet, we retrospectively asked the patients on the development of pain and autonomic abnormalities from the time of the eliciting injury, performed a thorough clinical investigation with an emphasis on signs of autonomic failure and compared symptoms and clinical findings with such information in previous medical records. We also evaluated symptoms and signs according to the type of injury they had suffered. RESULTS Of a total of 52 patients (30 women and 22 men, mean age 39.0 years at the time of injury), 34 patients had CRPS type 1 (65.4%) and 18 CRPS type 2 (34.6%), 25 patients with pain in the upper and 27 in the lower extremity. A total of 35 patients (67.3%) were diagnosed with CRPS (following mean 2.1 years) prior to the investigation at OUS-Rikshospitalet (mean 4.86 years following injury). Mean time from injury to diagnosis was 33.5 months (SD 30.6) (2.8 years) for all patients. In retrospect, all 17 patients first diagnosed at OUS met the CRPS diagnosis at an earlier stage. All patients retrospectively reported intense pain (numeric rating scale > 7) from the time of injury with a large discrepancy to previous medical records which only stated intense pain in 29.4% of patients with CRPS type 1 and 44.4% of patients with CRPS type 2 within the first four months. While the patients reported an early onset of autonomic dysfunction, present in 67.3 and 94.2% of the patients within one week and one month, respectively, reports of autonomic abnormalities within the first four months was far less (maximum in 51.7% of patients with CRPS type 1 and in 60% in CRPS 2). In 10 patients with CRPS type 1, no symptom nor sign of autonomic abnormalities was reported. CONCLUSIONS We still find a significant delay in the diagnosis of CRPS. There is a large discrepancy between both self-reporting of intense, disproportionate pain, as well as symptoms of autonomic abnormalities from the time of injury, and documentation in previous medical records. Our findings suggest a lack of awareness of risk factors for the development of CRPS, such as early intense pain and autonomic abnormalities without recovery, contributing to delayed diagnosis. The present results suggest causes of delayed CRPS-diagnosis. An increased attention to early warning signs/risk factors may improve diagnosis of CRPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Kristian Lunden
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ellen Jorum
- Section of Clinical Neurophysiology, Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Dhatt S, Krauss EM, Winston P. The Role of FLIR ONE Thermography in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Case Series. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 100:e48-e51. [PMID: 32618755 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000001522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Complex regional pain syndrome remains a debated syndrome characterized by symptoms and signs, including pain, sensory disturbances, thermal asymmetry, edema, and motor impairments. Thermography is a tool that assesses skin surface temperature distribution. Current literature focuses on the role of thermography for diagnostic purposes; however, its role in monitoring the response to treatment in complex regional pain syndrome is unclear. We present a case series of four patients with complex regional pain syndrome where a FLIR ONE thermal imaging camera (FLIR Systems, Inc, Wilsonville, OR) was used to assist in the diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome, capture the effects of diagnostic nerve blocks to evaluate a peripheral nerve contribution to complex regional pain syndrome, as well as monitor and assess treatment efficacy with prednisone and surgery. Four patients were screened by clinical assessment to meet the Budapest Criteria. The thermal images revealed improvement in the temperature distribution after therapeutic intervention. We also noted temporary but immediate changes on thermal imaging with diagnostic nerve blocks. Our cases suggest that the FLIR ONE thermal imaging camera has the potential to be an accessible monitoring tool to assist in diagnosis and assess treatment efficacy in complex regional pain syndrome over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saroop Dhatt
- From the University of British Columbia, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (SD); Division of Plastic Surgery, University of British Columbia, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (EMK); and Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada (PW)
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Prasad Md A, Chakravarthy Md K. Review of complex regional pain syndrome and the role of the neuroimmune axis. Mol Pain 2021; 17:17448069211006617. [PMID: 33788654 PMCID: PMC8020088 DOI: 10.1177/17448069211006617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a progressive and painful disease of
the extremities that is characterized by continuous pain inconsistent with
the initial trauma. CRPS is caused by a multi-mechanism process that
involves both the peripheral and central nervous system, with a prominent
role of inflammation in CRPS pathophysiology. This review examines what is
currently known about the CRPS inflammatory and pain mechanisms, as well as
the possible impact of neurostimulation therapies on the neuroimmune axis of
CRPS. Study design A narrative review of preclinical and clinical studies provided an overview
of the pain and inflammatory mechanisms in CRPS and addressed the effect of
neurostimulation on immunomodulation. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted based on the PRISMA guidelines
between September 2015 to September 2020. Data sources included relevant
literature identified through searches of PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane
Database of Systematic Reviews. Results Sixteen preclinical and eight clinical studies were reviewed. Preclinical
studies identified different mechanisms of pain development in the acute and
chronic CRPS phases. Several preclinical and clinical studies investigating
inflammatory mechanisms, autoimmunity, and genetic profiles in CRPS,
supported a role of neuroinflammation in the pathophysiology of CRPS. The
immunomodulatory effects of neurostimulation therapy is still unclear,
despite clinical improvement in the CRPS patients. Conclusions Increasing evidence supports a role for inflammation and neuroinflammation in
CRPS pathophysiology. Preliminary neurostimulation findings, together with
the role of (neuro)inflammation in CRPS, seems to provide a compelling
rationale for its use in CRPS pain treatment. The possible immunomodulatory
effects of neurostimulation opens new therapeutic possibilities, however
further research is needed to gain a better understanding of the working
mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Prasad Md
- Axxon Pain, Brisbane Private Hospital, 259 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane, Queensland 4000, Australia
| | - Krishnan Chakravarthy Md
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, VA San Diego Health Care, San Diego, CA, USA
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Munday I, Kneebone I, Rogers K, Newton-John T. The Language of Pain: Is There a Relationship Between Metaphor Use and Adjustment to Chronic Pain? PAIN MEDICINE 2021; 23:2073-2084. [PMID: 33729513 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnaa467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Metaphor, frequently used in chronic pain, can function as a communicative tool, facilitating understanding and empathy from others. Previous research has demonstrated that specific linguistic markers exist for areas such as pain catastrophizing, mood, as well as diagnostic categories. The current study sought to examine potential associations between the types of pain metaphors used and diagnostic category, disability, and mood. DESIGN Online cross-sectional survey in Sydney, Australia. SUBJECTS People with chronic pain (n = 247, age 19-78 years, M = 43.69). METHODS The data collected included demographics, pain metaphors, the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS-21). Associations between metaphor source domains, obtained via Systematic Metaphor Analysis, and scores on the BPI, DASS-21, as well as diagnostic group were considered using binary logistic analysis. RESULTS Use of different pain metaphors was not associated with pain intensity, however the extent to which pain interfered with daily life did have a relationship with use of metaphorical language. Preliminary support was found for an association between the use of certain pain metaphors and self-reported diagnostic categories, notably Endometriosis, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, and Neuropathic pain. CONCLUSIONS There may be specific linguistic metaphorical markers to indicate pain interference and for particular diagnoses. Appreciation of pain metaphors has potential to facilitate communication and enhance understanding in interactions between clinicians and people with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogene Munday
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ian Kneebone
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kris Rogers
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Toby Newton-John
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Herlyn P. [41/m-Where does the pain come from? : Preparation for the medical specialist examination: part 68]. Unfallchirurg 2021; 124:190-193. [PMID: 33651114 DOI: 10.1007/s00113-021-00966-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Herlyn
- Klinik für Unfall‑, Wiederherstellungs- und Handchirurgie, Städtisches Klinikum Dresden, Standort Friedrichstraße, Friedrichstr. 41, 01067, Dresden, Deutschland.
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Of mice, microglia, and (wo)men: a case series and mechanistic investigation of hydroxychloroquine for complex regional pain syndrome. Pain Rep 2021; 5:e841. [PMID: 33490839 PMCID: PMC7808678 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000000841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition that occurs after minor trauma characterized by sensory, trophic, and motor changes. Although preclinical studies have demonstrated that CRPS may be driven in part by autoinflammation, clinical use of immune-modulating drugs in CRPS is limited. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug used to treat malaria and autoimmune disorders that may provide benefit in CRPS. Objectives To describe the use of HCQ in patients with refractory CRPS and investigate possible mechanisms of benefit in a mouse model of CRPS. Methods We initiated HCQ therapy in 7 female patients with refractory CRPS undergoing treatment at the Stanford Pain Management Center. We subsequently undertook studies in the mouse tibial fracture-casting model of CRPS to identify mechanisms underlying symptom reduction. We evaluated behavior using mechanical allodynia and spinal cord autoinflammation by immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results We treated 7 female patients with chronic, refractory CRPS with HCQ 200 mg twice daily for 2 months, followed by 200 mg daily thereafter. Two patients stopped HCQ secondary to lack of response or side effects. Overall, HCQ significantly improved average numerical rating scale pain from 6.8 ± 1.1 before HCQ to 3.8 ± 1.9 after HCQ treatment. In the tibial fracture-casting mouse model of CRPS, we observed reductions in allodynia, paw edema, and warmth following daily HCQ treatment starting at 3 weeks after injury. Spinal cord dorsal horn microglial activation and cytokine levels were also reduced by HCQ treatment. Conclusion Together, these preclinical and clinical results suggest that HCQ may benefit patients with CRPS at least in part by modulating autoinflammation and support further investigation into the use of HCQ for CRPS.
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Chmiela MA, Hendrickson M, Hale J, Liang C, Telefus P, Sagir A, Stanton-Hicks M. Direct Peripheral Nerve Stimulation for the Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A 30-Year Review. Neuromodulation 2020; 24:971-982. [PMID: 33098229 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), is a difficult to treat condition characterized by debilitating pain and limitations in functional ability. Neuromodulation, in the form of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), have been traditionally used as a treatment for CRPS with variable success. OBJECTIVE This chart review describes the use of implantable PNS systems in the treatment of CRPS of the upper and lower extremities spanning nearly three decades. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed on 240 patients with PNS implanted between 1990 and 2017 at our institution. Of these, 165 patients were identified who had PNS systems implanted for a diagnosis of CRPS. Patient profile, including baseline characteristics, comorbidities, past/current interventions/medications and targeted nerves, was descriptively summarized through standard summary statistics. Patients' pain scores and opioid consumptions at baseline (preimplant), 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months were collected and compared. Device revisions and explants were summarized, and patient functional outcomes were described. RESULTS Pain scores at baseline and at 12-month follow-up were decreased from a mean of 7.4 ± 1.6 to 5.5 ± 2.4 and estimated to be 1.87 (95% CI: [1.29, 2.46], paired t-test p-value <0.001) lower at 12 months. At baseline, 62% of patients were on chronic opioid therapy, compared with 41% at 12 months. Of 126 patients who reported changes in functional status, 64 (51%) reported improvement, 27 (21%) reported worsening, and 35 (28%) did not report any meaningful change. Excluding end-of-life battery replacements, surgical revision occurred in 56 (34%) of patients. Thirteen patients (8%) underwent implantation of a second PNS because of symptomatic expansion outside of the original painful region. Device explant was performed in 32 (19%) of patients. Median length of follow-up was 74 [14, 147] months. Of the 36 patients who continue to follow-up at our institution, 29 (81%) continue to use their PNS. CONCLUSIONS We can conclude that PNS is a useful modality to improve function and reduce long-term pain in selected patients suffering from CRPS type I and type II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Chmiela
- Department of Pain Management, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mark Hendrickson
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jason Hale
- Department of General Anesthesiology, Anesthesiology Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Outcomes Research, Anesthesiology Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Phillip Telefus
- Department of Pain Management, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Afrin Sagir
- Department of General Anesthesiology, Anesthesiology Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Kinfe T, von Willebrand N, Stadlbauer A, Buchfelder M, Yearwood TL, Muhammad S, Chaudhry SR, Gravius S, Randau T, Winder K, Maihöfner C, Gravius N, Magerl W. Quantitative sensory phenotyping in chronic neuropathic pain patients treated with unilateral L4-dorsal root ganglion stimulation. J Transl Med 2020; 18:403. [PMID: 33087129 PMCID: PMC7579938 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02566-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In a previous study, we reported that selective dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRGSTIM) at DRG level L4 promoted a favorable outcome for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) patients along with DRGSTIM-related changes of inflammatory biomarkers in blood and saliva. The impact on somatosensation is largely unknown. Herein, we assessed the quantitative sensory profile to quantify L4-DRGSTIM effects in CRPS patients. Methods Twelve refractory CRPS patients (4 female; 8 male; mean age 69 ± 9 years) received standardized quantitative sensory testing (QST) protocol at baseline and after 3 months of unilateral L4-DRGSTIM assessing nociceptive and non-nociceptive thermal and mechanical sensitivity of the knee affected by CRPS and the contralateral non-painful knee area. Results At baseline, CRPS subjects showed significantly increased thresholds for warmth, tactile and vibration detection (WDT, MDT and VDT) and exaggerated pain summation (WUR). After 3 months of unilateral L4-DRGSTIM all pain parameters exhibited trends towards normalization of sensitivity accumulating to a significant overall normalization for pain sensitivity (effect size: 0.91, p < 0.01), while with the one exception of WDT all non-nociceptive QST parameters remained unchanged. Overall change of non-nociceptive detection was negligible (effect size: 0.25, p > 0.40). Notably, reduction of pain summation (WUR) correlated significantly with pain reduction after 3 months of L4-DRGSTIM. Conclusions Selective L4-DRGSTIM lowered ongoing pain in CRPS patients and evoked significant normalization in the pain domain of the somatosensory profile. Thermoreception and mechanoreception remained unchanged. However, larger randomized, sham-controlled trials are highly warranted to shed more light on effects and mechanisms of dorsal root ganglion stimulation on quantitative sensory characteristics. The study protocol was registered at the 15.11.2016 on German Register for Clinical Trials (DRKS ID 00011267). https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00011267
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kinfe
- Division of Functional Neurosurgery and Stereotaxy, Department of Neurosurgery, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Nico von Willebrand
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Stadlbauer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Buchfelder
- Department of Neurosurgery, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Thomas L Yearwood
- Department of Pain Management, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Sajjad Muhammad
- Department of Neurosurgery, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Shafqat R Chaudhry
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences Shifa College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shifa Tameer-E-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sascha Gravius
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Randau
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms University Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Klemens Winder
- Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Nadine Gravius
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Walter Magerl
- Institute of Neurophysiology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Serum Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Does Not Differentiate Complex Regional Pain Syndrome from Other Pain Conditions in a Tertiary Referral Setting. Mediators Inflamm 2020; 2020:6259064. [PMID: 33061828 PMCID: PMC7539124 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6259064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we showed that serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) levels, a marker for T-cell activation, were higher in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) patients than in healthy controls, suggesting pathogenic T-cell activation in CRPS. Additionally, sIL-2R levels discriminated well between CRPS and healthy controls with a high sensitivity (90%) and specificity (89.5%), suggesting a possible role for sIL-2R in the diagnosis of CRPS. In order to further validate this marker in the diagnostic workup of CRPS, we conducted this prospective cohort study in which we determined sIL-2R levels in patients that were referred to our tertiary referral center with a suspicion of CRPS in a limb, and subsequently compared sIL-2R levels between the patients that were diagnosed with CRPS (CRPS group) and those who were not (no CRPS group). A group of anonymous blood bank donors were used as a healthy control group. Furthermore, we explored the relationship between sIL-2R and CRPS disease severity using the CRPS severity score. Median sIL-2R levels of both the CRPS group (2809.0 pg/ml; Q3-Q1: 3913.0-1589.0) and no CRPS group (3654.0 pg/ml; Q3-Q1: 4429.0-2095.5) were significantly higher than that of the control group (1515.0 pg/ml; Q3-Q1: 1880.0-1150.0): CRPS vs. controls, p < .001; no CRPS vs. controls, p < 0.001. Serum sIL-2R levels did not differ significantly between the CRPS and no CRPS group. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between sIL-2R levels and the CRPS severity score (rs = −0.468, p = 0.024). Our results confirm our previous findings of higher sIL-2R levels in CRPS patients than in healthy controls. We further showed that serum sIL-2R cannot differentiate between CRPS and other pain conditions of a limb in a tertiary referral setting. Interestingly, a negative correlation was found between sIL-2R and CRPS disease severity; this finding warrants further research into the relationship between sIL-2R and CRPS disease severity.
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Longitudinal translocator protein-18 kDa-positron emission tomography imaging of peripheral and central myeloid cells in a mouse model of complex regional pain syndrome. Pain 2020; 160:2136-2148. [PMID: 31095093 PMCID: PMC6527343 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Longitudinal positron emission tomography of translocator protein-18 kDa revealed early central, and persistent peripheral, myeloid activation in a mouse tibial fracture model of complex regional pain syndrome. Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a severely disabling disease characterized by pain, temperature changes, motor dysfunction, and edema that most often occurs as an atypical response to a minor surgery or fracture. Inflammation involving activation and recruitment of innate immune cells, including both peripheral and central myeloid cells (ie, macrophages and microglia, respectively), is a key feature of CRPS. However, the exact role and time course of these cellular processes relative to the known acute and chronic phases of the disease are not fully understood. Positron emission tomography (PET) of translocator protein-18 kDa (TSPO) is a method for noninvasively tracking these activated innate immune cells. Here, we reveal the temporal dynamics of peripheral and central inflammatory responses over 20 weeks in a tibial fracture/casting mouse model of CRPS through longitudinal TSPO-PET using [18F]GE-180. Positron emission tomography tracer uptake quantification in the tibia revealed increased peripheral inflammation as early as 2 days after fracture and lasting 7 weeks. Centralized inflammation was detected in the spinal cord and brain of fractured mice at 7 and 21 days after injury. Spinal cord tissue immunofluorescent staining revealed TSPO expression in microglia (CD11b+) at 7 days but was restricted mainly to endothelial cells (PECAM1+) at baseline and 7 weeks. Our data suggest early and persistent peripheral myeloid cell activation and transient central microglial activation are limited to the acute phase of CRPS. Moreover, we show that TSPO-PET can be used to noninvasively monitor the spatiotemporal dynamics of myeloid cell activation in CRPS progression with potential to inform disease phase–specific therapeutics.
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Drummond PD, Morellini N, Visser E, Finch PM. Expression of Cutaneous Beta-2 Adrenoceptors Is Similar in Patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Pain-Free Controls. PAIN MEDICINE 2020; 21:1199-1207. [PMID: 31120123 DOI: 10.1093/pm/pnz110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Studies in rodents suggest that cutaneous beta-2 adrenoceptors (β2-ARs) mediate inflammation and pain after tissue injury and that inflammation and peripheral nerve injury trigger increases in neuronal β2-AR expression. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the expression of β2-ARs on keratinocytes and dermal nerves in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). DESIGN, SETTING, AND SUBJECTS Fifty-eight patients with CRPS were recruited for this study. In addition, skin biopsies were obtained from 13 pain-free women and three pain-free men of similar age and sex distribution as the patients. METHODS Quantitative sensory tests for assessing sensitivity to pressure, pinprick, light touch, heat, and cold were administered, and skin biopsies were obtained from the affected and contralateral limbs. Skin biopsies were also obtained from a similar site on the dorsal hand or foot of pain-free controls. Immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy were used to identify β2-ARs on keratinocytes, dermal nerves, and blood vessels in the skin samples. RESULTS The distribution of β2-ARs in keratinocytes and nerves was similar in the affected and contralateral limbs of patients and was similar for target cells in patients and controls. However, elevated β2-AR expression in reticular nerve bundles was associated with heightened sensitivity to heat pain. CONCLUSIONS These findings do not support a major role of cutaneous β2-ARs in CRPS. However, activation of neuronal β2-ARs may contribute to thermal hyperalgesia in a subgroup of patients. Whether activation of β2-ARs on keratinocytes mediates inflammation early in the course of CRPS requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Drummond
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Natalie Morellini
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Eric Visser
- School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Philip M Finch
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Halicka M, Vittersø AD, McCullough H, Goebel A, Heelas L, Proulx MJ, Bultitude JH. Disputing space-based biases in unilateral complex regional pain syndrome. Cortex 2020; 127:248-268. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2020.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Bharwani KD, Dik WA, Dirckx M, Huygen FJPM. Highlighting the Role of Biomarkers of Inflammation in the Diagnosis and Management of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. Mol Diagn Ther 2020; 23:615-626. [PMID: 31363934 PMCID: PMC6775035 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-019-00417-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is characterized by continuous pain that is often accompanied by sensory, motor, vasomotor, sudomotor, and trophic disturbances. If left untreated, it can have a significant impact on the quality of life of patients. The diagnosis of CRPS is currently based on a set of relatively subjective clinical criteria: the New International Association for the Study of Pain clinical diagnostic criteria for CRPS. There are still no objective laboratory tests to diagnose CRPS and there is a great need for simple, objective, and easily measurable biomarkers in the diagnosis and management of this disease. In this review, we discuss the role of inflammation in the multi-mechanism pathophysiology of CRPS and highlight the application of potential biomarkers of inflammation in the diagnosis and management of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna D Bharwani
- Center for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Willem A Dik
- Laboratory Medical Immunology, Department of Immunology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike Dirckx
- Center for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Frank J P M Huygen
- Center for Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Prednisone for Acute Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Pain Res Manag 2020; 2020:8182569. [PMID: 32184912 PMCID: PMC7060858 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8182569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate prednisone effectiveness on complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) features in a community-based outpatient rehabilitation setting. Design A single-centre, retrospective inception cohort design was used. Inclusion criteria were CRPS diagnosis according to the Budapest criteria, involvement of multiple joints, treatment with prednisone, and duration of symptoms less than one year. Typical prednisone treatment was 28-day taper regimen with 60 mg. Patient symptoms and signs were compared before and after treatment. Results There were 39 patients who met inclusion criteria for analysis. Duration of symptoms before treatment was 80.8 ± 67.7 days. Following treatment, 19 (48.7%) patients reported complete pain resolution, 19 (48.7%) patients reported decreased pain permitting functional use, and 1 (2.6%) patient reported no improvement. All symptoms and signs decreased significantly following oral prednisone treatment (p < 0.001). Range of motion (ROM) deficits persisted in 19 (49%) patients. However, 17 of these patients reported functional ROM recovery. Degree of ROM recovery and time-to-treatment had low positive correlation (r = 0.354, p < 0.001). Range of motion (ROM) deficits persisted in 19 (49%) patients. However, 17 of these patients reported functional ROM recovery. Degree of ROM recovery and time-to-treatment had low positive correlation (. Conclusions These data support short-course prednisone treatment for acute and subacute CRPS with multijoint involvement in a community rehabilitation setting. The association between time-to-treatment and ROM recovery suggests earlier treatment may result in improved ROM outcomes.
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Neuropsychological Changes in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Behav Neurol 2020; 2020:4561831. [PMID: 32399082 PMCID: PMC7201816 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4561831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a poorly understood chronic pain condition of multifactorial origin. CRPS involves sensory, motor, and autonomic symptoms primarily affecting one extremity. Patients can also present with neuropsychological changes such as reduced attention to the CRPS-affected extremity, reminiscent of hemispatial neglect, yet in the absence of any brain lesions. However, this "neglect-like" framework is not sufficient to characterise the range of higher cognitive functions that can be altered in CRPS. This comprehensive literature review synthesises evidence of neuropsychological changes in CRPS in the context of potential central mechanisms of the disorder. The affected neuropsychological functions constitute three distinct but not independent groups: distorted body representation, deficits in lateralised spatial cognition, and impairment of non-spatially-lateralised higher cognitive functions. We suggest that many of these symptoms appear to be consistent with a broader disruption to parietal function beyond merely what could be considered "neglect-like." Moreover, the extent of neuropsychological symptoms might be related to the clinical signs of CRPS, and rehabilitation methods that target the neuropsychological changes can improve clinical outcomes in CRPS and other chronic pain conditions. Based on the limitations and gaps in the reviewed literature, we provide several suggestions to improve further research on neuropsychological changes in chronic pain.
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