Korean J Med.
2001 Jul;61(1):95-98.
A case of primary erythermalgia
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Ulsan University, Ulsan, Korea.
- 2Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Inha University, Inchon, Korea.
Abstract
- Erythromelalgia is an extraordinary condition of unknown etiology characterized by recurrent attacks of burning pain, redness, swelling, and warmth of the extremities. Characteristically the symptoms are provoked by heat, exercise, and dependency. Several classifications of erythromelalgia have been documented and include an erythromelalgia associated with thrombocythemia, primary erythermalgia, and secondary erythermalgia. Secondary erythermalgia develops in association with certain diseases or as a consequence of adverse drug reactions. So treat the underlying disease or withdrawal the offending drug leads to resolution of these symptoms. But primary erythermalgia occurs in the absence of any underlying disorder and is refractory to pharmacologic measures.We present a 28-year-old woman with primary erythermalgia who had recurrent episodes of severe burning pain on her feet. The pain did not respond to analgesics but relieved by immersion in cold water. The results of clinical, laboratory, and electrophysiologic investigations showed no underlying disorder. She was treated with aspirin and morphine, but it provided minimal relief only.
