Recurrent Subanesthetic Ketamine Infusions for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Leading to Biliary Dilation, Jaundice, and Cholangitis: A Case Report.

Complex regional pain syndrome is a chronic pain condition that may be resistant to many treatment modalities. Ketamine infusions have demonstrated some promising results, though their use may be associated with a number of adverse effects limiting their widespread applicability. Hepatotoxicity and cholangiopathy have been described in chronic ketamine abuse, though rarely in therapeutic use. We report the impact of recurrent short subanesthetic ketamine infusions for the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome resulting in biliary dilation, jaundice, and cholangitis. We recommend that prescribing physicians consider this and monitor liver function tests throughout the treatment period to minimize morbidity.