Raynaud's phenomenon involving the tongue

Abstract Aims Raynaud's phenomenon is a recognised vascular disorder typically involving the digits. Here we present two cases of Raynaud's phenomenon involving the tongue in the absence of a secondary autoimmune cause; an uncommon clinical entity. Methods Clinical notes for two patients diagnosed with lingual Raynaud's phenomenon were evaluated. Results Case 1: A 61‐year‐old female presented with intermittent paraesthesia and blue/white discolouration of the tongue only. Episodes were of sudden onset, usually precipitated by periods of exertion in cold weather. Medical history was negative for underlying connective tissue disease. She had a positive family history for ischaemic heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Autoimmune screening bloods, MRI tongue and exercise stress tests were unremarkable. A working diagnosis of primary lingual Raynaud's phenomenon was made. She commenced nifedipine 15 mg daily and reported an improvement in symptoms. Case 2: A 62‐year‐old male presented with intermittent episodes of sudden onset dysarthria, paraesthesia and white discolouration involving the anterior tongue, precipitated by cold weather. Medical history was negative for underlying connective tissue disease. Review by Stroke Medicine excluded transient ischaemic attack. Bloods including FBC, ANA, ENA, dsDNA, anti‐CCP, RF, ESR and CRP were negative. He was diagnosed with primary lingual Raynaud's phenomenon and recommended to commence calcium‐channel blocker antihypertensive medication. Conclusion Oral manifestations of Raynaud's phenomenon in the absence of connective tissue disease is rare and may mimic neurological conditions, requiring multidisciplinary collaboration. General dental practitioners should recognise deviations from baseline clinical features which would prompt referral to allied specialties.