[The three-staged evolution of the post-traumatic algodystrophy].
Algodystrophy is considered to develop in three consecutive stages: acute, dystrophic and atrophic. However, there is little evidence documenting this staging in large series of patients. In order to verify the natural history of this condition 30 patients with post-traumatic algodystrophy were observed during one year in prospective controlled fashion. Twenty-three females and 7 males of mean age 60 years were included in the study. All patients, except one, were in stage I of the disease with mean duration of 2,7 months. Fracture of the distal radius was the most frequent predisposing factor. The patients were reassessed at 6 and 13 month after initial diagnosis. A group of 64 patients with algodystrophy subjected to the treatment was also reviewed in search for three-stage evolution of the condition. Of 30 non-treated patients 27 completed the study. Three patients were subjected to the treatment due to persistence or worsening of symptoms. In 26 patients (87%) most of symptoms withdrew at 13 months. In 1 patient some features at final assessment were suggestive of stage II of the disease. Of the 64 treated patients, 2 had developed stage II and in 4 condition persisted at the same stage 12 months. The study suggests that progressive, three-staged course of algodystrophy occurs less frequently than it was earlier suspected. In most cases the condition resolves spontaneously.
Zyluk
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Klinika Chirurgii Ogólnej i Chirurgii Reki, Pomorska Akademia Medyczna, Szczecinie.
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D018450:Disease Progression; D005260:Female; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D012019:Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index