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  • Case Study
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A case of inherited erythromelalgia

Abstract

Background A 15-year-old boy presented with recurrent episodes of erythema and burning pain in the distal extremities, which he had experienced since early childhood. The episodes were triggered by heat or exertion. His medical history revealed an extensive six-generation family history of similar symptoms.

Investigations Neurological examination, MRI brain scan, electromyography, skin biopsy, laboratory blood testing, and DNA analysis.

Diagnosis Juvenile onset primary erythromelalgia.

Management Genetic counseling, and symptomatic management of neuropathic pain.

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Figure 1: Photograph of the patient's feet showing erythema
Figure 2: The patient's family pedigree
Figure 3: Schematic diagram of a sodium channel showing the locations of the known mutations in Nav 1.7 in erythromelalgia
Figure 4: The effect of the F1449V mutation on the firing properties of dorsal root ganglion neurons

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Correspondence to Stephen G Waxman.

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The authors declare no competing financial interests.

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Novella, S., Hisama, F., Dib-Hajj, S. et al. A case of inherited erythromelalgia. Nat Rev Neurol 3, 229–234 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1038/ncpneuro0425

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/ncpneuro0425

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