MULTIDISCIPLINARY PAIN ABSTRACTS: 24 . Neurology (24)

Abstract

In this study, patients were randomized into two treatment groups; one group was instructed to apply dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) 50% five times daily to the affected extremity while patients in the second group were treated with N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) 600 mg effervescent tablets three times daily. Interventions were accompanied by pain medication, occupational therapy for upper extremity CRPS‐I (complex regional pain syndrome type I), and physical therapy for lower extremity CRPS‐I in specific circumstances. Treatment was given for 17 weeks, with a possibility to continue or switch medication after this period. Upper and lower extremity skills and functions, and general health status were also evaluated. Overall, no significant differences were found between NAC and DMSO after 17 and 52 weeks on impairment level and general health status. Significant differences were found for subscores of lower extremity function, in favor of DMSO‐treatment. Treatment with DMSO and NAC are generally equally effective in treatment of CRPS‐I. Strong indications exist for differences in effects for subgroups of patients with warm or cold CRPS‐I: for warm CRPS‐I, DMSO‐treatment appears more favorable, while for cold CRPS‐I, NAC‐treatment appears to be more effective.