Raynaud Phenomenon

Raynaud phenomenon is a common vascular disorder involving the fingers and occasionally the toes. Primary Raynaud phenomenon is characterized by episodic digital vasosopasm brought on by cold exposure or emotional stress and follows a typically benign course. Secondary Raynaud phenomenon occurs in association with another disorder, most frequently one of the connective tissue disorders, and is more frequently associated with digital artery obstruction, development of digital ulcers, and need for digital amputations. The diagnosis is mainly clinical and supported by noninvasive vascular lab findings. Treatment is mainly preventive, with more severe cases treated either pharmacologically or surgically.