[Update Raynaud Phenomenon]

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is influenced by weight changes and associated with psychological conditions like depression and anxiety.
• While RP generally has minimal socioeconomic impact, it can lead to significant disability in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients due to severe digital complications.
• Early identification of underlying conditions, particularly SSc, is crucial for managing RP effectively.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and highlight new aspects of Raynaud's phenomenon.
• To discuss diagnostic tools and their limitations in identifying underlying causes like SSc.
• To summarize current and emerging therapeutic strategies for severe RP, especially in the context of SSc.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies and clinical observations concerning Raynaud's phenomenon.
• Analysis of diagnostic modalities including capillaroscopy, antibody testing, and clinical signs.
• Evaluation of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options for RP and SSc.

Main Results:

• Weight loss can trigger RP; depression and anxiety are frequent comorbidities.
• Capillaroscopy is valuable for detecting SSc, but pathological findings require corroboration with antibodies and clinical signs.
• Effective treatments for severe RP, often linked to SSc, include prostanoids, Bosentan, and potentially Botulinum-A, with autologous fat grafting as a novel approach.

Conclusions:

• Raynaud's phenomenon has multifaceted triggers and associations, necessitating careful diagnosis.
• Systemic sclerosis significantly increases the risk of disability in RP patients.
• Treatment for severe RP is evolving, with ongoing research into novel therapies like stem cell grafting, while acknowledging the significant placebo effect in management.