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Raynaud's phenomenon - Management
What are the criteria for primary Raynaud's phenomenon?
- Diagnose primary Raynaud's phenomenon if all of the following criteria are met:
- No underlying disease suggested by the history and general physical examination.
- Symmetrical episodes (affects both hands, but not necessarily all fingers).
- No tissue necrosis, ulceration, gangrene, or severe ischaemia.
- Normal nail-fold capillaries (although this may be difficult to determine — see Differentiating between primary and secondary).
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is normal.
- Anti-nuclear antibody tests are negative.
- If primary Raynaud's phenomenon is diagnosed, initial management can be in primary care.
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