Raynaud’s Mimics

Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) is a common feature among many autoimmune conditions and is often used to support the diagnosis of a rheumatic disease. Temperature sensitivity and digital discoloration, two key features of RP, are shared by several other conditions which may complicate a clinical evaluation. An accurate diagnosis of RP is critical in risk stratifying patients with early rheumatic disease and determining appropriate management. Physicians and other health care providers must be aware of these “mimics” and clearly distinguish them from RP. This chapter begins with a detailed review of each of these conditions which include acrocyanosis, primary pernio/chilblains, chilblain lupus, hypersensitivity to the cold in the hands and feet, livedo reticularis and racemosa, and erythromelalgia. Subsequently, the chapter will address other mimics of RP that are also associated with digital color changes, but are distinguished from RP by an absence of temperature sensitivity. Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), complex regional pain syndrome, and thromboangiitis obliterans are discussed in detail and important features of recognition and diagnosis highlighted.