Re: Thalamic Pain Syndrome

Posted By CCF MD on August 20, 1997 at 11:59:00:

In Reply to: Thalamic Pain Syndrome posted by Mort on August 19, 1997 at 02:37:26:







: Following a stroke in July of 1992 I have been diagnosed with Thalamic Pain Syndrome, and suffer with involuntary muscle spasms and constant pain.  Though I am on a considerable number of medications, including Percoset, Neurontin and others, my condition seems to be worsening and my psychological state of mind is dismal.  We have not been able to locate a great deal of information on Thalamic Pain Syndrome, nor have we been able to locate anyone who is specializing in or researching this condition.  Do you have any suggestions for where to look for additional treatment or information?  We live in the San Diego area but are willing to travel to find relief.




The other name for Thalamic pain syndrome is the Dejerine and Roussy Syndrome
This can be a very difficult disorder to treat and as far as I know we do not
have experimental treatments going on at our institution. From a medication standpoint
the most common medications are tricyclic antidepressants and tegretol. Neurontin
as you are taking has also been used. The percocet usage will only cause more problems.
I believe there are some neurosurgical techniques using central brain stimulation
but we do not do them. You should contact the neurosurgical department at UC San Fran
and ask if they have experience with this. Your best bet otherwise is to
see a pain specialist but as you know this is a very difficult disorder to treat.
Best of luck.