Transient migratory osteoporosis: a variant of reflex sympathetic dystrophy? Report of 3 cases and literature review.

Three cases of transient migratory osteoporosis treated with sympathetic blocks are described. Review of the literature in conjunction with the presentation and treatment of these 3 cases led to the formulation of a hypothesis of a common mechanism (mediated through the sympathetic nervous system) responsible for the profound osteoporosis and pain of reflex sympathetic dystrophy and transient migratory osteoporosis. Arguments are presented supporting transient migratory osteoporosis as a variant of the classical reflex sympathetic dystrophy.