Chapter 11: Reynaud Phenomenon Flashcards
What is Raynaud phenomenon?
results from an exaggerated vasoconstriction of digital arteries and
arterioles.
These vascular changes induce paroxysmal pallor or cyanosis of the digits of the
hands or feet; infrequently, the nose, earlobes, or lips can also be involved.
Characteristically,
the involved digits show red, white, and blue color changes from most proximal to most distal,
correlating with proximal vasodilation, central vasoconstriction, and more distal cyanosis ( Fig.
11-28 ).
Raynaud phenomenon may be a primary disease entity or be secondary to a variety of
conditions.
Raynaud phenomenon may be a category of what disease?
- *primary disease entity** or be **secondary to a variety of
conditions. **
FIGURE 11-28 Raynaud’s phenomenon. A, Sharply demarcated pallor of the distal fingers
resulting from the closure of digital arteries. B, Cyanosis of the fingertips.
What is the Primary Raynaud phenomenon?
Primary Raynaud phenomenon (previously called Raynaud disease) reflects an exaggeration
of central and local vasomotor responses to cold or emotional stresses.
It affects 3% to 5% of the general population and shows a predilection for young women.
Structural changes in the
arterial walls are absentexcept late in the course, when intimal thickening can appear.
The
course of Raynaud phenomenon is usually benign, but when long-standing can result in atrophy of the skin, subcutaneous tissues, and muscles.
Ulceration and ischemic gangrene are
rare
In contrast, what is secondary Raynaud phenomenon ?
refers to vascular insufficiency of the extremities
secondary to arterial disease caused by other entities including SLE, scleroderma, Buerger
disease, or even atherosclerosis.
Since Raynaud phenomenon may be the first manifestation of such conditions, any patient with new symptoms should be evaluated. Of these individuals,
some 10% will eventually manifest an underlying disease.
