Raynaud's Phenomenon
and Scleroderma
By Richard Silver,
M.D., Professor of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina
(originally published in "Scleroderma Voice," 2002
Issue #1)
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Richard
Silver, M.D. |
Question:
I have been diagnosed with Raynaud's phenomenon. I recently
learned that there is a close link between Raynaud's and scleroderma.
However, I understand there may be a delay of as long as 20
years from the first signs of Raynaud's until the appearance
of other signs of scleroderma.
Answer:
A close relationship between Raynaud's phenomenon and scleroderma
does indeed exist. About 95% of all scleroderma patients experience
Raynaud's phenomenon (tri-color changes in the fingers and/or
toes induced by cold exposure).
On
the other hand (no pun intended), Raynaud's phenomenon is
a common condition in the adult population, and most people
with Raynaud's phenomenon are otherwise healthy. Only about
5% of them have (or will subsequently develop) a connective-tissue
disease such as scleroderma.
Two
tests seem to have value for determining which Raynaud's phenomenon
sufferers may be at risk:
- A blood test for antinuclear antibodies, especially tests
for specific auto antibodies such as anti-centromere or
anti-scleroderma-70 antibodies; and
- Nailfold capillary microscopy.
The
former is readily available and can be ordered by your primary
care doctor.
The
latter is a non-invasive study of the small blood vessels
in your skin, which often requires consultation with a rheumatologist
trained to conduct such examinations. |
