Finger systolic pressures and skin temperatures in severe Raynaud's syndrome: the relationship to healing of skin lesions and the use of oral phenoxybenzamine.

Systolic pressures and skin temperatures were studied in 23 patients with severe Raynaud's syndrome who were given oral phenoxybenzamine. There was a relationship between the measurements and the severity of the disease. Statistically significant correlation was found between the measurements and the time for healing of skin lesions. The chances of early healing are high when digital systolic pressure exceeds 55 mm Hg, the branchial-finger pressure difference is less than 50mm Hg, and the maximal difference among fingers less than 30 mm Hg. Early healing is also likely when finger temperature of 10 degree C or more above room temperature is achieved during "reflex" heating and the difference in temperature among fingers is less than 4 degree C. Therefore, the measurements are of value in the determination of prognosis. Rest pain, local tenderness, trophic skin changes, and vasospastic phenomena improved in the majority of patients soon after beginning treatment with phenoxybenzamine. Some side effects, usually minor, were common but with doses not exceeding 50 mg used in this study they were usually not trouble-some and the drug was tolerated well. Phenoxybenzamine is a valuable drug in the treatment of patients with severe vasospastic disease.