REFLEX SYMPATHETIC DYSTROPHY SYNDROME IN PREGNANCY OR THE POSTPARTAL PERIOD

A new case of postpartum reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) is reported. A review of the literature found 89 additional cases of R SDS with onset during pregnancy or after delivery. Specific features o f RSDS associated with childbearing are reported. Most cases involve t he lower limbs. The hip is the most frequently affected joint. Other l ower limb joints can be involved either alone or in combination with t he hip. The diagnosis of spinal involvement is exceedingly difficult i n the absence of RSDS at other sites. Onset during the third trimester of pregnancy and resolution after delivery is the usual time pattern in RSDS of the spine or other sites. The prevalent view in the United States that RSDS associated with childbearing is a separate entity of unknown pathogenesis is challenged.