Raynaud's phenomenon

Question 1

What is Raynauds phenomenon

Answer 1

exaggerated vasoconstrictive response of the digital arteries and cutaneous arteriole to the cold or emotional stress

Question 2

Typical demographic

Answer 2

young women (e.g. 30 years old) often bilateral symptoms

Question 3

Secondary causes of Raynauds phenomenon

Answer 3

connective tissue disorders:
- scleroderma
- RA
- SLE

leukaemia
type I cryoglobulinaemia (cold agglutinins)

drugs: oral contraceptive pill

Question 4

Factors suggesting underlying connective tissue disease in patients presenting with raynauds

Answer 4

> 40 years
unilateral symptoms
rashes
autoantibodies
digital ulcers
calcinosis

Question 5

Management of Raynaud’s

Answer 5

1st-line: calcium channel blockers e.g. nifedipine

IV prostacyclin (epoprostenol) infusions: effects may last several weeks/months