Complex regional pain syndrome type I associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

BACKGROUND

(CRPS I [formerly called reflex sympathetic dystrophy]) is a syndrome with pain and signs of autonomic dysfunction after trauma or immobilization; the pathophysiologic mechanisms of CRPS I, however, remain unknown.

DESIGN

The authors present a case of CRPS I associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Along with the motor paresis due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, pain, swelling, and signs of autonomic disturbance occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

This case supports the hypothesis that immobilization is one of the major contributing factors for CRPS I.