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Vibration elicited vasoconstrictor reflex in Raynaud's phenomena.
1Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rigshopitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine
|June 1, 1988
Summary
This study reveals that both primary Raynaud's phenomenon (PRP) and vibration-induced white finger (VWF) involve a central sympathetic nervous system response to vibration. The findings suggest a new vibration test can help differentiate between PRP and VWF.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Occupational Health
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Primary Raynaud's phenomenon (PRP) and vibration-induced white finger (VWF) are conditions affecting finger blood flow.
- Understanding the underlying mechanisms of vasoconstriction in these conditions is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the central sympathetic nervous system in vibration-induced vasoconstriction in PRP and VWF.
- To evaluate a novel vibration test for differentiating between PRP and VWF.
Main Methods:
- Measured finger capillary blood flow using a 133xenon washout technique in women with PRP, men with VWF, and their respective controls.
- Assessed blood flow changes during vibration exposure, with and without proximal nervous blockade.
Main Results:
- All groups exhibited vibration-induced vasoconstriction, abolished by nervous blockade, indicating a central sympathetic reflex.
- Women with PRP showed an augmented vasoconstrictor response compared to controls.
- Men with VWF displayed a normal response, suggesting peripheral sensory nerve dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- A vibration-elicited central sympathetic vasoconstrictor reflex exists in normal fingers and those affected by PRP and VWF.
- PRP is associated with central sympathetic nervous system hyperreactivity, while VWF involves peripheral sensory nerve dysfunction.
- The vibration test shows potential for differentiating between PRP and VWF.