Post-Traumatic Raynaud's Phenomenon: A Case Report

Raynaud's phenomenon has multiple etiologies, ranging from occupational causes to systemic disease. Most occupational causes of Raynaud's phenomenon usually present with vascular compromise.

A 41-year-old Chinese woman presented to the emergency department with progressive pain and bluish discoloration over her right index finger after minor trauma. The clinical examination revealed discoloration over multiple fingertips on both hands. She was diagnosed with Raynaud's phenomenon with possible underlying systemic disease. Additional laboratory workup led to the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus with complex regional pain syndrome. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: It is rare for the emergency physician to diagnose Raynaud's phenomenon in the setting of minor trauma. It is important to diagnose this condition because of its potential complications.