Raynaud’s Phenomenon

Question 1

What is Raynaud’s phenomenon?

Answer 1

A condition which occurs due to vasospasm of the digits
Characterised by typical sequence of colour changes in response to cold stimulus

Question 2

What are the colour changes that occur in Raynaud’s?

Answer 2

• white: inadequate blood flow
• blue: cyanosis
• red: reperfusion + hyperaemia

Question 3

What is Raynaud’s syndrome?

Answer 3

The term used when Raynaud’s phenomenon is idiopathic

Question 4

Management of Raynaud’s syndrome

Answer 4

Avoid smoking
Take measures to keep warm (especially hands)

Question 5

What diseases are associated with Raynaud’s phenomenon?

Answer 5

• scleroderma/systemic sclerosis
• SLE
• Sjögren’s syndrome
• dermatomyositis + polymyositis

Question 6

What drugs can cause/worsen Raynaud’s phenomenon?

Answer 6

Beta blockers

Question 7

Physical causes of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Answer 7

• use of heavy vibrating tools
• cervical rib
• sticky blood e.g. crygolubinaemia (vasculitis)

Question 8

Complications of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Answer 8

Digital ulcers
Infection
Gangrene

Question 9

Compare the pattern + duration of Raynaud’s syndrome + phenomenon

Answer 9

• Raynaud’s syndrome: lasts minutes | symmetrical + bilateral pattern
• Raynaud’s phenomenon: lasts hours | asymmetrical pattern with only a few digits affected

Question 10

Management of Raynaud’s phenomenon

Answer 10

• keep hands warm
• avoid smoking
• CCBs e.g. nifedipine
• phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors e.g. sildenadfil (viagra)