Raynaud’s Phenomenon

This book comprehensively reviews the understanding of a disorder that continues to challenge primary care clinicians and specialists. Raynaud’s phenomenon is an inappropriate and exaggerated response of the digital and cutaneous circulation to cold environmental temperatures. It is common, often causing significant morbidity and it is a major challenge for physicians at every level and specialty. A comprehensive review of Raynaud’s is now timely because of the incredible progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of the normal regulation of cutaneous blood flow and how disease can disrupt the function of these specialized vessels. Likewise, the clinical implications of Raynaud’s phenomenon are better appreciated with studies defining its prevalence, the associated diseases, and new treatment approaches for patients suffering from it. The nomenclature used to classify cases has changed over the years and is important to understand these terms both for clinical care and research. This fully updated second edition comprehensively discusses various causes of Raynaud’s phenomenon including childhood Raynaud’s phenomenon, Raynaud’s phenomenon secondary to connective tissue disease, occupational causes, and a variety of other associated disorders. Careful consideration is given to the diagnosis of Raynaud’s phenomenon with state of the art discussion of nailfold capillary examination, non-invasive imaging, angiography, and appropriate serological testing. The concept that Raynaud’s phenomenon is associated with systemic disease or can be the manifestation of a systemic vasospastic disorder is also presented. In addition to reviewing both non-drug and drug therapy for patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon, this volume provides a practical approach in specific clinical situations by presenting problematic cases and the authors’ expert opinions on therapy. It also discusses mechanisms contributing to the vascular dysfunction of primary Raynaud’s phenomenon and the vascular disease of secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon. Engaging readers with case vignettes and a plethora of visual aids, Raynaud’s Phenomenon: From Pathogenesis to Management is a state-of-the-art, authoritative reference and invaluable contribution to the literature that will be of interest to adult and pediatric physicians, rheumatologists, and clinical and basic researchers.