Surg Cosmet Dermatol. 2019;11(3):221-227
INTRODUCTION: Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is an exaggerated physiological response of the extremity vessels, mainly to cold and stress. Patients refractory to clinical treatment or intolerant to its adverse events may be treated with local injection of botulinum toxin (BTX).
OBJECTIVE: To describe the experience of botulinum toxin use in severe cases of RP.
METHODS: Observational, descriptive, retrospective, and unicenter study of case series of severe RP treated with BTX-A, from 2011 to 2015. Parameters of pain, numbness, color, and stiffness were scored by visual analogical scale (VAS) and tabulated and compared before and after the treatment.
RESULTS: Total pain improvement in 71.4% of cases and partial improvement in 28.6%. Numbness disappeared in 57.1% of cases and improvement in 42.9%. There was a total regression of stiffness in 57.1% of cases and partial improvement in 28.6%. The color was completely reversed in 57.1% of the patients. There was ulceration healing in the only case in with they were present. Ischemic attacks were reduced in 85,7% of cases. No complications occurred.
CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that the use of BTX-A in patients with severe RP is a promising therapeutic option.
Keywords: Raynaud disease; Botulinum toxins; Botulinum toxins, type A