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Two cases of the causalgia syndrome have been presented, one probably related to a mild peripheral neuropathy and the second, more classically, following trauma. The technique of regional infusion of guanethidine has been shown to be efficacious in relieving the pain, if only temporarily, but as it is largely without risk it may be repeated is necessary. It should probably be performed as a routine before consideration of surgical sympathectomy in order to assess whether surgical intervention is likely to be effective. Mechanisms of the causalgia syndrome itself are considered and a rationale for the efficacy of the procedure is suggested.

Convulsive status epilepsy is a medical emergency with significant mortality and morbidity. This retrospective survey reports the use of non-anaesthetic doses of thiopentone, given either by intravenous or rectal infusion. The regime was effective in controlling convulsive status without significant complications. It is suggested that this regime can be used safely when standard doses of diazepam (or clonazepam), and/or phenytoin, fail to effect immediate control of convulsive status, and before anaesthetic agents are administered.