[Are mental disorders the cause of reflex sympathetic dystrophy: a review].

Predisposition to reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is defined as personal susceptibility to produce and maintain an excessive reaction in response to nociceptive stimulation. There is suggested that certain psychological traits predispose one to develop RSD, however, some authors claim that emotional and behavioural disturbances are the result rather than the cause of this painful condition. The review of the literature concerning the relations between psychological factors and RSD is presented in the paper. The review revealed no valid evidence to support the opinion that there is particular psychological or personality pattern predisposing one to develop RSD. Nevertheless, the internal susceptibility to RSD has not been completely precluded. On the other hand, there is enough evidence in the literature to substantiate the view that psychological and emotional disturbances are secondary to persistent disease. These changes, however, are not characteristics for RSD but occur also in other patients suffering from severe pain of other origin. There is emphasized in the paper that psychological support has significantly positive effect in the treatment of RSD.