Raynauds Phenomenon
In 1862, Maurice Raynaud described RP, which is a vasospastic disorder characterized by episodic attacks of well-demarcated color changes with numbness and pain of the digits on exposure to cold. It may be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to an underlying condition. Primary RP is also called Raynaud’s disease.
1. Vasospasm of the digital arteries and cutaneous arterioles causes Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP).
2. The sequential color changes of RP are white to blue to red.
3. Nailfold capillary microscopy (NCM) and specific autoantibodies predict which patients with RP are likely to develop a rheumatic disorder.
4. Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are most efficacious and best tolerated in patients who require therapy.
