Geographic variation in the prevalence of Raynaud's phenomenon: a 5 region comparison.

Abstract

In addition to being a triggering factor for RP attacks, cold also appears to be an etiologic factor in the pathogenesis of RP. A subclinical cold injury, more likely to occur in colder climates, may be responsible for the "local fault" that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of RP and, in association with other risk factors, may predispose subjects to develop clinical RP.