ABSTRACT
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) is a multisymptom, multisystem syndrome that affects one or more extremities, but may affect any part of the body. Some of the abnormalities that are seen in patients with RSDS are sensory abnormalities, abnormal blood flow, abnormal sweating, and weakness. RSDS may subside for years and then recur with a new injury. The recurrence should be treated immediately. Duration of RSDS varies. In some cases, the pain continues for at least 2 years and in some cases indefinitely. Sylvia H. had many classic RSDS clinical findings, and the diagnosis had been established through examination by many clinicians over the years. One characteristic of RSDS is that the pain is more severe than expected for the type of injury that occurred. RSDS may subside for years and then recur with a new injury.
