A visually striking case of primary acrocyanosis: A rare cause of the blue digit

Cold environments can trigger a variety of conditions, which, in their acute phase often present to the Emergency Department. Primary acrocyanosis is a distinct, rare condition which may be missed resulting in misdiagnosis and mismanagement. Primary acrocyanosis is a peripheral vascular disorder defined by painless, symmetrical discoloration of the distal appendages and uniquely characterized by persistence of the skin color changes after cold exposure. We present a case of a 24-year-old female who presented to the Emergency Department with peripheral cyanosis after cold exposure and was eventually diagnosed with primary acrocyanosis by Rheumatology. The prognosis for primary acrocyanosis is quite good in comparison to other acrosyndromes and once secondary causes of acrocyanosis have been ruled, out can be managed conservatively with lifestyle modifications and potential follow-up with Rheumatology. (c) 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

In cold environments, various conditions can lead to acute presentations in the Emergency Department, including primary acrocyanosis which is a rare disorder characterized by persistent skin color changes after cold exposure. Diagnosis of primary acrocyanosis can be missed, but prognosis is generally favorable compared to other acrosyndromes, and management typically involves lifestyle modifications and potential Rheumatology follow-up.