Raynaud's phenomenon: a modern view of the problem

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is present in almost all patients with systemic connective tissue diseases and is often the first clinical manifestation of the disease, preceding skin and organ involvement several years later. Aim - to study and analyze available data regarding the prevalence, risk factors for development, clinical features and diagnosis of RF based on an analysis of modern literature data. Raynaud's phenomenon is quite common in the general population (about 5%), and is usually caused by cold exposure or significant changes in temperature (primary RF). There are primary and secondary RF. In both primary and secondary RF, the typical episode is characterized by the sudden appearance of cold fingers (or toes) coupled with sharply limited changes in skin color (white) due to restricted blood flow, followed by cyanotic skin color (blue), indicating on tissue hypoxia. During rewarming, the ischemic phase (white or blue attack) usually lasts 15-20 minutes. After recovery, the skin turns red, which leads to reperfusion erythema. To establish a diagnosis, blue-white changes are usually necessary. In patients with highly pigmented skin, skin changes may be more visible on the palmar surface of the fingers. Conclusions. Despite the significant prevalence of RF, it is extremely difficult to establish its exact prevalence, especially in the pediatric population. If RF is suspected, the doctors should pay attention not only to changes in the color of the extremities, but also to swelling and telangiectasia in the patient during examination and medical history. Despite the absence of a “gold standard” for diagnosing RF, nail fold capillaroscopy is recognized as the main method for diagnosing RF today. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.