Chapter 26: Vasospastic Disorders and Vasculitis

The following sections are included:

• Understanding of the nomenclature used for the classification of vasospastic disorders into primary and secondary Raynaud’s phenomena (RP) is essential.

• The management of these disorders requires a multidisciplinary team approach involving physicians, rheumatologists and vascular specialists.

• Treatment of Raynaud’s includes general supportive measures, pharmacotherapy and correction of underlying disorders.

• Vasculitis is associated with a range of medical conditions and can present as digital ischaemia.

• A diagnosis of vasculitis is suggested by constitutional symptoms and confirmed by raised inflammatory markers, the presence of autoantibodies, targeted radiological imaging and biopsy of skin lesions or other involved organs.

• Immunosuppressive therapy is the mainstay of treatment in vasculitic disorders.