We recently identified the efficacy and safety of a botulinum toxin (BTX)-A/B in Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) and digital ulcers (DU) in Japanese patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Detailed assessments of peripheral vascular disorder using angiography and dermoscopic images of nail fold capillaries have not been performed previously. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of BTX-B on SSc-associated peripheral vascular disorder. Two SSc patients who suffered with RP and DU were treated with a BTX-B injection, and thereafter the symptoms of RP were improved and DU healed in both patients. Furthermore, angiography showed an increased blood flow to the palm and fingers, and dermoscopic images of nail fold capillary changes showed improvement. These results suggest that a BTX-B injection may increase peripheral blood flow and improve RP and DU in SSc patients.
Keywords: Raynaud's phenomenon; angiography; botulinum toxin B; digital ulcers; systemic sclerosis.
© 2017 Japanese Dermatological Association.