The reflex dystrophy syndrome response to treatment with systemic corticosteroids.

Twenty-three patients with reflex dystrophy syndrome were randomly allocated to medication with oral prednisone, 10 mg thrice daily, or placebo, previous reports having indicated effect of systemic corticosteroids. The medication was continued until clinical remission, maximally 12 weeks. The diagnosis was based on fulfillment of at least four of seven criteria which included clinical, radiological and circulatory changes. All 13 patients in the prednisone-treated group showed more than 75% clinical improvement within the twelve-week period. Of the ten patients who received placebo, only two reported improvement. Prednisone appears to be superior to other treatment in reflex dystrophy syndrome, although the mode of action is not known.