[Update Raynaud Phenomenon].

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Several new aspects concerning Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) are highlighted. Low weight is a known factor for the manifestation of RP, but RP may also be triggered by intended or unintended weight loss. RP is more frequent in presence of depression or anxiety disorders which may be revealed by questionnaires. The socioeconomic effect of RP is small in most of the patients; as far as they aren't engaged in professions with cold exposition, ability to work is not restricted. However, if systemic sclerosis (SSc) is the underlying disease of RP, disability rates are considerable due to finger necrosis and soft tissue damages. Capillaroscopy may be a decisive tool to disclose SSc being the underlying disorder for RP. However, a pathological capillaroscopy pattern is no proof of SSc and not diagnostic if antinuclear antibodies are absent; the predictive value of puffy fingers and specific antibodies is superior. Medical treatment is restricted to severe forms of RP, which are often caused by SSc. Calcium channel blockers have the highest propagation but should not be used in case of digital ulcers. Prostanoids seem to be of greater value, phophodiesterase inhibitors have a small effect and Bosentan may reduce the appearance of new ulcers. Botulinum-A may be considered if ulcers and pain are prevailing. With all options of treatment a considerable placebo effect has to be regarded. Promi

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

Browse all related research

Filter the research library by this study's title keywords, author, or publication year.