부산대학교 도서관

Raynaud's phenomenon is characterized by vasospasm, constriction of blood vessels, in response to cold or emotional stress. Usually, this results in an initial whitening of the skin, followed by a bluish color and then reddening, but occasionally the response is incomplete and only part of the color changes occur. Raynaud's phenomenon may occur by itself as a primary disorder, or may be a consequence of disorders such as autoimmune diseases, in which the body makes antibodies against its own tissues. A case is reported of a 78-year-old woman with cancer who developed Raynaud's phenomenon and a high blood level of antinuclear antibodies (antibodies that react against components from the nucleus of cells). High levels of antinuclear antibodies are typically associated with autoimmune disorders. The woman had a two-month history of poor sensation and color changes in the hands, and weight loss. Laboratory tests showed elevated antinuclear antibodies, and ultrasound studies showed abnormalities in the liver. Biopsy confirmed cancerous cells in the liver. The tissue origin of the cancer could not be identified, and the patient died four months later. Raynaud's phenomenon has been previously associated with cancer chiefly in relation to chemotherapy. Measurable antinuclear antibody levels have also been found in association with cancer, but rarely in combination with Raynaud's phenomenon. The study suggests that sudden development of this disorder and measurable levels of these antibodies in patients without other evidence of autoimmune or connective tissue disorders may indicate the presence of cancer. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)