Complex regional pain syndrome of the upper limb: a review.

In this paper, we present some impressions and thoughts about CRPS which we found useful in our proceedings with CRPS patients. The clinical sub-types of the CRPS are presented and differences in their characteristics are discussed. The current pathophysiological concepts for CRPS are outlined. Diagnostic criteria are presented and critically discussed. Both classification and diagnosing have translation on research and clinical practice. Treatment modalities are provided, addressing separately acute/early and chronic forms of the syndrome. The "Szczecin" protocol of management of early CRPS is presented in details. Some information about prevention of the syndrome is given. We believe that the information presented may support doctors in resolving their diagnostic dilemmas associated with CRPS.