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Cold stimulation test for Raynaud’s syndrome
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| Definition: |
A test that measures the temperature of each finger after submerged in an ice-water bath.
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| How the test is performed: |
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.
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| How to prepare for the test: |
Adults:
No special preparation is necessary for this test.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
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| How the test will feel: |
There may be some discomfort while your hand is in the cold water.
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| Why the test is performed: |
This test is a screening tool for Raynaud's phenomena.
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| Normal Values: |
Normally your finger temperature will return to normal within 15 minutes after the cold water exposure.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
If your finger temperature takes greater than 20 minutes to return to pre-bath levels, Raynaud's phenomena is indicated.
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| What the risks are: |
There are no risks associated with this test.
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| Special considerations: |
This test should not be performed if the blood supply to your fingers is compromised or if your fingers are infected.
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Review Date: 11/17/2001
Reviewed By: Birgit Kovacs, M.D., Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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