Treatment of R aynaud phenomenon in systemic sclerosis

Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disease characterised by microvascular injury and excessive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Most patients with this condition experience R aynaud phenomenon, usually as the earliest manifestation of disease. In addition to pain and functional impairment, R aynaud phenomenon can produce tissue ischaemia resulting in digital ulceration and gangrene. Current treatments have been only moderately successful in reducing the frequency and severity of R aynaud phenomenon in patients with systemic sclerosis. This review will address treatments available for R aynaud phenomenon in systemic sclerosis.