Secondary Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a recognised cause of digital vasculopathy requiring pharmacological intervention. Structured, evidence-based therapy aims to reduce the frequency and severity of vasospastic episodes and to address underlying vascular pathology.
A phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor is the agent of focus in this protocol — a drug class now regarded by specialists as among the most important recent advances in the treatment of this condition. The choice of specific agent, dosing, and titration schedule is set out in the full structured regimen.
PDE5 inhibitors are being increasingly advocated by rheumatologists for SSc-related RP (the form of RP in which they have been most extensively studied), with many clinicians now using a PDE5 inhibitor as a second choice after (or in addition to) a calcium channel blocker in patients with SSc-related digital vasculopathy.
For the practicing rheumatologist, PDE5 inhibitors are therefore probably the most important recent advance in the treatment of 'uncomplicated' RP.
DOI: 10.1177/1759720X17740074
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