Secondary erythromelalgia successfully treated with patient‑controlled epidural analgesia and interferon α‑2b: A case report and review of the literature

Li,Xingzhi; Li,Yaomin; Qu,Yao; Lu,Laijin

doi:10.3892/etm.2016.3088

Secondary erythromelalgia successfully treated with patient‑controlled epidural analgesia and interferon α‑2b: A case report and review of the literature

Authors:
- Xingzhi Li
- Yaomin Li
- Yao Qu
- Laijin Lu
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Affiliations: Department of Pain Management, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China, Department of Rehabilitation, Fushun Central Hospital, Fushun, Liaoning 113000, P.R. China, Department of Hand Surgery, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
Published online on: February 19, 2016 https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2016.3088
Pages: 1823-1826

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Abstract

Erythromelalgia (EM) is a debilitating neurovascular disease that is refractory to numerous treatment modalities. The present study reported the case of a 72‑year‑old woman diagnosed with EM secondary to polycythemia vera (PV), who was effectively treated with the use of patient‑controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) and interferon α‑2b therapy. The study aimed to provide clinical information on this condition based on the findings of the present case and previously‑reported cases. PCEA containing local anesthetics and dexamethasone or fentanyl resulted in nearly complete relief of symptoms. Furthermore, continuous use of interferon α‑2b for the treatment of the PV completely relieved the EM symptoms. In conclusion, PCEA and interferon α‑2b may be promising treatments for EM secondary to PV.

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