The Korean Journal of Pain

The Korean Pain Society (대한통증학회)
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Thalamic Pain Misdiagnosed as Cervical Disc Herniation

  • Lim, Tae Ha (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Eulji General Hospital, Eulji University College of Medicine) ;
  • Choi, Soo Il (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine) ;
  • Yoo, Jee In (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine) ;
  • Choi, Young Soon (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine) ;
  • Lim, Young Su (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine) ;
  • Sang, Bo Hyun (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine) ;
  • Bang, Yun Sic (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine) ;
  • Kim, Young Uk (Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, International St. Mary's Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine)
  • Received : 2015.11.12
  • Accepted : 2016.01.13
  • Published : 2016.04.01
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Abstract

Thalamic pain is a primary cause of central post-stroke pain (CPSP). Clinical symptoms vary depending on the location of the infarction and frequently accompany several pain symptoms. Therefore, correct diagnosis and proper examination are not easy. We report a case of CPSP due to a left acute thalamic infarction with central disc protrusion at C5-6. A 45-year-old-male patient experiencing a tingling sensation in his right arm was referred to our pain clinic under the diagnosis of cervical disc herniation. This patient also complained of right cramp-like abdominal pain. After further evaluations, he was diagnosed with an acute thalamic infarction. Therefore detailed history taking should be performed and examiners should always be aware of other symptoms that could suggest a more dangerous disease.

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References

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