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Sudeck atrophy

Case contributed by Ian Bickle
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Prolonged stay in ICU due to alternative medical condition. Complains of pain in the left foot and mild swelling.

Patient Data

Age: 35 years
Gender: Female
x-ray

Diffuse periarticular osteopenia involving the midfoot and all the joints of the forefoot.

Joint spaces maintained.

Case Discussion

Sudeck's atrophy (a.k.a. complex regional pain syndrome) often occurs in the setting of prolonged disuse of a region of the body - the feet and hands being prime sites.

Plain film features include:

  • diffuse periarticular osteopenia
  • maintained joint spaces
  • soft tissue swelling.

The appearances are rather "Aunt Minnie" in nature, especially in the correct clinical context.

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