Causalgia: redefinition as a clinical pain syndrome

Abstract

In this report, the following criteria were used for the diagnosis of causalgia: (a) the presence of continuous, burning pain distal to a site of injury; (b) hyperalgesia and allodynia in the painful area; and (c) a traumatic event occurring proximal in the painful area and within weeks prior to the onset of pain. The McGill pain questionnaire was used to test the selected pain population for homogeneity. The scores were similar among the patients and different from the scores in other pain syndromes. It is concluded that the above criteria are sufficient to make the diagnosis of causalgia. In addition, it appears that a central nervous system abnormality best accounts for the clinical features of causalgia.