[Raynaud's phenomenon: pathogenesis and prevalence].

Raynaud's phenomenon is defined as occasional ischemia of the distal parts of the extremities. Ischemia may be idiopathic as in primary Raynaud's disease or instigated by a comorbidity as in Raynaud's syndrome. Opinions on the etiopathogenesis of Raynaud's phenomenon have changed during recent years. Research has shown that enhanced vascular reactivity is attributable more to local factors and less to abnormalities in the central nervous system. Local factors are classified as vascular, nervous, and intravascular. Changes in our understanding of the etiopathogenesis of Raynaud's phenomenon have resulted in modified therapeutic guidelines. The present work reviews current opinions on the etiopathogenesis of Raynaud's phenomenon.