Fenómeno de Raynaud

raynaud′s phenomenon (rp) is a common clinical disorder, manifested by recurrent vasospasm of fingers and toes, often triggered by exposure to cold temperatures or emotional stress. it can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to several diseases or conditions, including connective tissue diseases such as systemic sclerosis. the pathogenesis of rp is poorly understood. it is generally accepted that endothelial damage and vascular dysfunction may be the earliest pathogenetic alteration and ethological factor responsible for vascular complications in rp patients. functional abnormalities (vasoconstriction) and structural changes (intimal proliferation, obstruction) are expressed clinically as rp and digital ulcers. rp is the first manifestation of the secondary associated disease and precedes other clinical manifestations by years.