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Quantitative Sudomotor Axon Reflext Test (QSART)
What Is QSART?
Quantitative Sudomotor Axon Reflex Test (QSART) is a diagnostic test for, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Type I (CRPS-1) formerly called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). QSART is a 3-phase test: Resting Skin Temperatures, Resting Sweat Output, and Stimulated Sweat Output. The entire procedure takes approximately 2-3 hours for completion. We ask that you arrive for your appointment 30 minutes prior to your test so you are able to relax and equilibrate to room temperature.
The beginning of the test consists of a technician measuring the resting skin temperatures of the arms or legs or both. Temperature probes are lightly taped to your hands and/or feet to get an accurate reading.
The Resting Sweat Output involves putting a small plastic cup on your arm or leg or both attached with a Velcro strap. Through our computerized system, we are able to find out how much sweat is being produced.
The QSART or stimulated sweat involves strapping another cup on your arm or leg, part of which is filled with a liquid. Then the same weak electric current commonly used for iontophoresis in physical therapy is turned on. This stimulates the sweat glands and the amount of sweat produced is measured. There are no needles used in this analysis and you should experience little or no discomfort. There is a tingling sensation (like in physical therapy) when the iontophoresis is turned on.
Upon completion of the laboratory test, the CROM Physician will be able to calculate the results and give an objective answer concerning a diagnosis of RSD to you and the referring physician.
Prior to your procedure, we recommend that you:
- Eat a light breakfast/lunch before your test (avoid a heavy meal).
- If you are a smoker, do not have a cigarette 20 minutes before the test.
- Do not take any over the counter medications 7 days prior to the test without consulting with the Physician, i.e.; cold, sleeping or motion sickness remedies.
- Do not use any lotions, deodorants, or other cosmetic topical ointments/ creams on your arms or legs for 48 hours before the test.
- Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine.
- Follow any recommendations made by your evaluating physician regarding any changes in medications for the 7 days before test.
The evaluating physician will review any medications that you are currently taking, during your initial examination. This appointment will be scheduled approximately 7 days prior to your QSART test and it will take between 60-90 minutes. During your initial evaluation you may also undergo an EMG (please refer to EMG brochure) if this is necessary.
Which CROM Physicians Perform QSART Tests And At Which Location?
Aurora
830 Potomac Circle
Suite 290
Aurora, CO 80011
J. Tashof Bernton, M.D.
George V. Schakaraschwili, M.D. |
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To schedule an appointment or to make a referral, call 303-685-CROM (2766)
or outside Metropolitan Denver call us toll free at 1-866-300-7326 |
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