Bilateral Foot Acrocyanosis in an Interferon-β-treated MS Patient

Raynaud's phenomenon and related vasospastic disorders

Raynaud's phenomenon, which is characterized by episodic digital pallor, cyanosis and rubor upon exposure to cold environment or to stress, is relatively common, although the prevalence depends on the climate. Still, it is under-diagnosed, under-treated, and often confused with other conditions. Primary Raynaud's phenomenon (i.e., Raynaud disease) must be distinguished from secondary Raynaud's phenomenon (i.e., Raynaud syndrome) as long-term morbidity and outcomes differ vastly between the two conditions. Additionally, the practitioner must differentiate between Raynaud's phenomenon and related vascular disorders, such as acrocyanosis, pernio, and livedo reticularis. In this article, we review differences between the conditions and suggest an approach to diagnosis and treatment strategy for these disorders.

Acrocyanosis - A Symptom with Many Facettes

Acrocyanosis is an uncommon complaint belonging to the acro-syndromes. It typically presents with coolness and bluish discolourations of hands, feet, ears, nose, lips and nipple. The most frequently affected parts of the body are the hands. This review discusses physical factors, vascular disorders, infectious diseases, haematological disorders, solid tumours genetic disorders, drugs, eating disorders, and spinal disease presenting as or leading to acrocyanosis.