Interferon-alpha induced Raynaud's syndrome

The cytokine interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) is increasingly prescribed for a number of indications, especially viral hepatitis and several malignancies. Two patients are described who developed Raynaud's syndrome during treatment with IFN-alpha as adjuvant therapy for high-risk melanoma. With a review of the available literature the symptomatology, possible pathophysiologic mechanisms and treatment options are discussed.