MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Cold stimulation test for Raynaud's phenomenon

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Cold stimulation test for Raynaud's phenomenon

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition How the Test is Performed How to Prepare for the Test How the Test Will Feel	Why the Test is Performed Normal Results What Abnormal Results Mean Risks Considerations

Illustrations

Raynaud's phenomenon

Definition Return to top

The cold stimulation test for Raynaud's phenomenon is a test that measures the temperature of each finger after they are placed in an ice-water bath.

How the Test is Performed Return to top

A heat sensor is taped to your fingers and the temperature is recorded. Your hand is then immersed in ice water for 20 seconds. Then it is removed from the bath and the temperature recorded every 5 minutes until your finger temperature is the same as it was before the bath.

How to Prepare for the Test Return to top

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the Test Will Feel Return to top

There may be some discomfort while your hand is in the cold water.

Why the Test is Performed Return to top

This test is a screening tool for Raynaud's phenomenon.

Normal Results Return to top

Normally your finger temperature will return to normal within 15 minutes after the cold water exposure.

What Abnormal Results Mean Return to top

You may have Raynaud's phenomenon if your finger temperature takes greater than 20 minutes to return to pre-bath temperature.

Risks Return to top

There are no risks associated with this test.

Considerations Return to top

This test should not be performed if you have a finger infection or problems with the blood supply to your fingers.

Update Date: 5/27/2007

Updated by: Steve Lee, DO, Rheumatology Fellow, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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