DUDLI-LAB
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
What is CRPS?
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, is a severe chronic pain condition that usually develops after an injury, surgery, or fracture. The pain is often much stronger and longer-lasting than expected from the original injury. CRPS can also include swelling, changes in skin temperature or color, increased sensitivity to touch, reduced movement, and changes in sweating or hair and nail growth.
Although CRPS is considered rare, it has a major impact on patients’ quality of life. Population-based studies estimate an incidence of around 26 cases per 100,000 person-years, with women affected more often than men. Fractures are one of the most common triggers. In prospective fracture studies, approximately 5–10% of patients may develop CRPS after a fracture, although estimates vary depending on the type of fracture and diagnostic criteria used.
What do we study at the Dudli Lab?
At Dudli’s lab, we aim to understand why CRPS develops and which biological mechanisms drive the disease. In particular, we study the interaction between the skin, the immune system, and the nervous system.
Our research focuses on skin cells called fibroblasts, which are important for tissue repair but may also contribute to inflammation and nerve sensitization. We investigate how fibroblasts from CRPS-affected skin communicate with nerve-like cells, and whether they produce signals that promote neuronal growth, sensitivity, or other pain-related changes
Why does this matter?
CRPS can have a profound impact on patients’ daily lives, but the biological mechanisms behind the disease are still not fully understood. This makes diagnosis and treatment challenging, especially because not all patients respond to current therapies.
By studying how skin cells, immune cells, and nerve cells interact, we hope to better understand what drives pain in CRPS. This knowledge could help identify new biomarkers for earlier diagnosis and reveal new therapeutic targets to improve treatment options for patients.
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