Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1 in Both Lower Extremities, Resistant to Treatment: A Case Report

Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS-1) is characterizedby pain, vasomotor and sudomotor changes and trophicdisturbances. It may develop as a result of trauma, especiallyextremity fractures and surgery. Although the pathogenesis ofCRPS-1 is not exactly clear, abnormal sympathetic nerve activitymay be a potential etiological factor. Occurrence of CRPS-1 in thelower extremity with bilateral involvement is a very rare condition.Calcitonin, bisphosphonates and analgesics can be used in themanagement of these cases. A case of bilateral lower extremityCRPS-1 with rebellious pain is described and discussed in thispaper. We suggest bilateral CRPS-1 may occur in the lowerextremity and pregabalin may be an effective and alternativetherapy in these patients.