Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN)
Academic Term
6-2016
Document Type
Project
Course Number
5330
Course Name
Pathophysiology
Professor’s Name
Dr Chovan
Keywords
CRPD, RSD, Complex regional pain syndrome, Pain, Reflex sympathetic dystrophy, Pain disorder
Subject Categories
Medical Pathology | Medical Physiology | Medicine and Health Sciences | Nursing | Other Nursing
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic and often disabling condition that is seen in many patients seeking pain management. The condition leaves patients in excruciating pain that is disproportionate to the inciting injury. In addition, patients with this pain disorder experience abnormal sensations such as cold and heat allodynia, hyperalgesia, edema, abnormal sudomotor activity and trophic changes (D. Lee et al., 2015). CRPS disproportionally affects four times as many women as men (Alexander, Peterlin, Perreault, Grothusen, & Schwartzman, 2012). There are two types of CRPS: type 1, often referred to as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), is not evident of nerve damage while type 2 does indicate nerve damage. The pathophysiology of CRPS remains unproven: however, many hypotheses exist due to this disorder’s multiple system dysfunction and the evidence is continuing to progress. As the pathophysiologic mechanisms of CRPS further advance, treatment modalities will continue to emerge in order for health care providers to improve the outcomes for patients suffering from CRPS.
Recommended Citation
Hendrix, Maria A., "Complex Regional Pain Syndrome" (2016). Nursing Student Class Projects (Formerly MSN). 132.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_msn/132