Raynaud’s Phenomenon Flashcards
What is Raynaud’s phenomenon?
A condition due to vasospasm of the digits characterized by a typical sequence of colour changes in response to a cold stimulus and often precipitated by stress.
The colour changes are: white - inadequate blood flow, blue - venous stasis, red - re-warming hyperaemia.
What is Raynaud’s syndrome?
Used when Raynaud’s phenomenon is idiopathic, common in young women, may improve with age, and may be familial.
Treatment includes measures to keep warm and avoid smoking.
What symptoms should alert you to underlying disease in Raynaud’s phenomenon?
Symptoms developing over age 30 years, abnormal nail-fold capillaries, puffy fingers, or photosensitive rash.
These symptoms suggest a rheumatic cause.
List diseases associated with Raynaud’s phenomenon.
- Scleroderma
- SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)
- Dermatomyositis and polymyositis
- Sjogren’s syndrome
- Physical causes (e.g., use of heavy vibrating tools, cervical rib, ‘sticky’ blood)
- Drug-induced (e.g., beta blockers)
RP symptoms developing after age 30 should raise suspicion for underlying conditions.
What are first-line and other treatments for Raynaud’s phenomenon?
Calcium-channel blockers
Other treatments may include phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, prostacyclins, and, to a lesser extent, angiotensin receptor antagonists, ACE inhibitors, SSRIs, systemic and topical nitrates.
What are common complications of Raynaud’s phenomenon?
- Digital ulcers
- Severe digital ischaemia
- Infection
- Gangrene
Episodes usually last minutes in Raynaud’s syndrome; pattern is symmetrical and bilateral; tissue necrosis is rare.
True or False: The episodes in Raynaud’s syndrome last for hours and often affect only a few digits.
False.
If there is underlying disease, episodes may last for hours and the pattern is often asymmetrical.
What is nail-fold capillaroscopy?
A non-invasive imaging tool useful in diagnosing scleroderma and dermatomyositis by evaluating structural changes in peripheral microcirculation.
It is available in many rheumatology units.
Fill in the blank: Treatment for Raynaud’s phenomenon includes keeping warm and _______.
[avoiding smoking].