Annals of neurology
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Annals of neurology · Apr 2001
Alpha-adrenergic supersensitivity of the sudomotor nerve in complex regional pain syndrome.
alpha-Adrenoreceptor supersensitivity in many tissues has been described in patients with complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS I). Because excessive sweating of the affected limb is an important feature of CRPS I, we investigated whether this supersensitivity also occurs in the sudomotor system. ⋯ We conclude that the abnormal response in patients with acute CRPS I is most likely mediated by an axon reflex and that alpha-adrenoreceptor supersensitivity occurs in the presynaptic portion of the postganglionic sudomotor axon. This supersensitivity is reversed when CRPS I resolves.