SP0052 Incidence, Significance and Clinical Approach to the Raynaud's Phenomenon

Raynaud9s phenomenon (RP) is common, affecting in the order of 5% of the population. In most cases it is primary (idiopathic), when attacks are completely reversible and do not progress to tissue injury. However, RP can also be secondary to a number of different diseases/conditions. The significance of RP to the rheumatologist is that it can be the presenting feature of connective tissue disease, in particular of systemic sclerosis (SSc)-spectrum disorders, and therefore presents a window of opportunity for early diagnosis. Abnormal nailfold capillaroscopy and SSc-specific autoantibodies are independent predictors of progression to SSc. Upon completion of the session, participants should be able to: Discuss the approach to the patient with RP, including separating primary RP from SSc-related RP. Describe the rationale for very early diagnosis of SSc. Disclosure of Interest None declared