Raynaud's disease

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Raynaud's disease (ray-nohz) n. a condition of unknown cause in which the arteries of the fingers are unduly reactive and enter spasm when the hands are cold. This produces attacks of pallor, numbness, and discomfort in the fingers. Gangrene or ulceration of the fingertips may result. Warm gloves and peripheral vasodilators may relieve the condition. R. phenomenon a similar condition resulting from atherosclerosis, ingestion of ergot derivatives, or use of vibrating tools. [ M. Raynaud (1834–81), French physician]

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