ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the etiology, pathogenesis and treatment of erythromelalgia.MethodsRetrospective analysis of clinical features and respective treatment options of 8 cases of erythromelalgia patients in Ruijin Hospital.ResultsThe major clinical characteristics of EM cases included burning, sharp, tingling and/or stinging pain in toes, soles and/or dorsum of feet, increased temperature, erythema and swelling.One case reported burning pain in both fingers and feet.These symptoms were more severe during the night, walking, standing, exercising and when the individual was near a heater.Patients could relieve their pains by rest, using cold packs, walking on cold floors or immersing feet in cold water.Combined treatment, topical therapies and management of underlying disorders were necessary for erythromelalgia.ConclusionErythromelalgia is a rare cutaneous vascular disease with characteristics of recurrent redness, burning pain, and warmth of the extremities which could be induced by heat and exercise.Combined treatment, topical therapies and management of underlying disorders were necessary for erythromelalgia.