Lab studies for Raynauds Phenomenon
Which laboratory studies are worthwhile in the evaluation of a patient with Raynauds Phenomenon?
In cases of suspected primary RP (typical age of onset, normal examination and NCM, lack of “red flags” listed in Question 12), laboratory studies are typically unnecessary. In primary RP, laboratory tests will often be normal or negative, although up to one-third of patients will exhibit low titer of antinuclear antibodies in their serum. Less than 25% of these patients develop an autoimmune disorder unless they have a nucleolar or centromere pattern. In patients with clinical evidence suggestive of a secondary cause of RP, appropriate studies for the presence of a hypercoagulable state, cryoglobulins, hypothyroidism, and SSc-specific antibodies should be considered.
