Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings

Complex regional pain syndrome Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnostic Criteria
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
X Ray
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1
Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings On the Web
Most recent articles
Most cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings All Images X-rays Echo & Ultrasound CT Images MRI
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings
CDC on Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings
Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings in the news
Blogs on Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings
Directions to Hospitals Treating Complex regional pain syndrome
Risk calculators and risk factors for Complex regional pain syndrome laboratory findings

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

There is not a specific test available for complex regional pain syndrome. It is primarily diagnosed through observation of the symptoms. However, thermography, sweat testing, x-rays, electrodiagnostics, and sympathetic blocks can be used to build up a picture of the disorder. Three phase bones scans have been thought of as one of the most specific diagnostic studies for RSD, but they are not very sensitive and therefore delay recognition of the disease. A delay in the diagnosis and/or treatment for this syndrome can result in severe physical and psychological problems. Early recognition and prompt treatment provide the greatest opportunity for recovery.

Laboratory Findings

Sweat Testing

Abnormal sweating can be detected by several tests. A powder that changes color when exposed to sweat can be applied to the limbs; however, this method does not allow for quantification of sweating. Two quantitative tests that may be used are the resting sweat output test and the quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test. These quantitative sweat tests have been shown to correlate with clinical signs of CRPS.