Is RSD an Autoimmune Disorder?
 

Hi Everyone,

I hope you're all doing well today.

Does anyone know if RSD is an autoimmune disorder? I've read on one website that is was. I think it was the American Autoimmune Association.

I keep forgetting to ask my dr, so was just wondering if any of you might know.

Thanks.

I don't recall it being said that it is an autoimmune but, I do know that it is an Autonomic syndrome as it directly effects the entire nervous system and causes autonomic symptoms.

Autonomic definition:

Your autonomic nervous system is made up of nerves that control those “automatic” things you need to do to survive. A few of those necessary things include blood pressure, heart rate, sweating, and digestion of your food. Autonomic dysfunction or dysautonomia refers to problems with this autonomic nervous system.

I hope that helps, and I'm sorry you are having a stressful day.

Also its considered a neurological problem because it affects the nerves. I haven't read that its autoimmune though. I will have to try and research that now that Im not flaring too bad to think.:D

hmm some new research
 

After some searching I was able to come up with some very interesting studies being done regarding the etiology of autoimmunity in CRPS

snippet: Some scientists are now convinced that for a subtype of CRPS, the body seems to be attacking itself. Autoimmunity means that the body's own defensive system turns on itself. In a certain of subset of people with CRPS, the nerves are under attack

Linkout: http://www.healthcentral.com/chronic.../autoimmunity/

Very interesting indeed!! Thanks for posting the question.

IMHO, yes. Ive read research that suggests it, but the field of CRPS research is a diverse one because there is so little definite understanding...we need more before they can say for sure. Maybe there are subtypes that are, and others that aren't about our immune response.

I'm interested in the fact that so many of us have other auto-immune problems... I'm a coeliac, and I know there are more CRPS sufferers than there should be who also have it.

I believe that the suggested auto-immune connection is the reason for the experimental ivIG treatment. It's another treatment where some claim fab results, and others no change at all. Clearly CRPS is a complex beast that works its way in each of us slightly differently.....

I like research that has a definite yes or no conclusion. Shame that's a rare beast too! :D

Bram.

Thanks everyone for your info on this question!
I'll look into those links you provided too, and also see if there are any others that can give more info on this. I hope you all have a pain and flare free night.
:grouphug:

Great question Renee! I have read studies here and there stating that it is an autoimmune disorder. If it's on the internet, then it has to be true right??? Haha, sorry, I couldn't resist :D Seriously though, Bram is correct in the fact that so many of us do have other autoimmune issues. It has to be related. I tested negative for celiac, but am definitely gluten intolerant. I also have malabsorption problems, gastroparesis, severe deficiencies in vitamins D, B12 and potassium, interstitial cystitis and allergies galore.

Thanks to you too Nanc. I appreciate the update. I'm going to look into celiac too. I don't think I was ever tested for that and am not quite sure what it is. I'll have to google it. Well, thanks again and hope you have a good night.

Yes I do believe it is. And I have read study's to where Drs are now thinking it is aswell even though they cant prove it yet. But its why I want to try IVIG infusions before I try ketamine.

Ditto, and my pain doc is putting me forward for this. She in unconvinced herself, but has passed my file on to the chap who is pioneering it. I'm not sure what to think TBH, but I'd like to hope that it just might be worth a try!

Good luck,

Bram.