Korean J Pain.  2011 Jun;24(2):112-114. 10.3344/kjp.2011.24.2.112.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS type-1) in an Adolescent Following Extravasation of Dextrose Containing Fluid-an Underdiagnosed Case

• Subedi A
• Bhattarai
• Biswas BK
• Khatiwada

• KMID: 2074008
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3344/kjp.2011.24.2.112

Abstract

Due to its complex pathophysiology and wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, the diagnosis of CRPS is often missed in the early stage by primary care physicians. After being treated by a primary care physician for 5 months for chronic cellulitis, a 16-year-old girl was referred to our hospital with features of type-1 CRPS of the right upper extremity. Inability to diagnose early caused prolonged suffering to the girl with all the consequence of CRPS. The patient responded well with marked functional recovery from multimodal therapy. Ability to distinguish CRPS from other pain conditions, referral for specialty care at the appropriate time and full awareness of this condition and its clinical features among various healthcare professionals are essential in reducing patient suffering and stopping its progression towards difficult-to-treat situations.

Keyword

adolescent; cellulitis; CRPS type-1; misdiagnosed

MeSH Terms

Adolescent
Cellulitis
Delivery of Health Care
Glucose
Humans
Physicians, Primary Care
Referral and Consultation
Stress, Psychological
Upper Extremity
Glucose

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Edematous and limited movement of right hand with scar marks.

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  Fig. 2 Significant improvement of right hand seen after the therapy.

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