Chronic Pernio

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Abstract
• Chronic pernio, or cold-induced vascular disease, is an uncommon syndrome with a clinical resemblance to vasculitis or peripheral cholesterol embolization. We studied a case of chronic pernio in which the angiogram revealed extensive vascular changes indistinguishable from vasculitis; pathologic studies of previously reported cases have revealed a primary vasculopathy. The pathophysiology of chronic pernio may be cold-induced vessel damage leading to a secondary dermopathy. Our patient's condition improved once the correct diagnosis was established and appropriate therapy was instituted. (Arch Intern Med 1986;146:1589-1592)