Raynaud's Phenomenon in a Slap Bass Player: A Case Report

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon is a frequent condition related to occupational exposure to local vibration but has not been described in musicians. This study aims to describe cold-induced blanching of the right second and (in particular) third digits in a 67-year-old double bass player following decades of cumulative repetitive blunt trauma to the fingers from slapping the strings. METHODS: A physical examination was undertaken and systolic blood pressure measured before and after cold provocation. RESULTS: At 10ÅãC the brachial systolic blood pressure was 156 mm Hg while blood pressure was immeasurable at the finger level, corresponding to a finger/brachial index of 0% of the second and third fingers. CONCLUSION: This is the first reported case of objectively verified, playing-related Raynaud’s phenomenon in a musician.