Raynaud’s phenomenon (syndrome) in neurological disorders

Krzysztof Kalużny
Waldemar Brola
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Małgorzata Fudala
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Oddział Neurologii z Oddziałem Udarowym Szpitala Specjalistycznego w Końskich, Polska
Oddział Neurologii z Oddziałem Udarowym Szpitala Specjalistycznego w Końskich, Polska
Oddział Neurologii z Oddziałem Udarowym Szpitala Specjalistycznego w Końskich, Polska

Abstract

Raynaud’s phenomenon is a vasospastic disorder characterized by sudden, well distinguishable pallor and subsequently cyanosis and redness of fingers, toes, less frequently of nose and ears, accompanied by pain and numbness. It may appear as standalone symptom (Raynaud’s disease) or in course of other disease as an accompanying symptom (Raynaud’s syndrome). In most cases Raynaud’s phenomenon accompanies connective tissue disorders, but it is also often seen during neurological illness. It is never, however, a dominant symptom. It may be the first symptom to appear and precedes full-blown disease (Sneddon’s syndrome, multiple system atrophy, polymyositis) or it may occur during the whole course of the disease (migraine). It is usually present during long-lasting diseases (syringomyelia, multiple sclerosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome). The clinical picture is distinct and diagnosis can be made on basis of a well-conducted assessment of medical history. Management of Raynaud’s phenomenon includes treatment of the primary disease as well as treatment of vessel constriction. Surgical treatment is rarely advised and then only in cases of trophic changes and severely advanced symptoms.

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