A 16-year-old male came to us with a 4-month history of Raynaud's phenomenon and pain in his left index finger. He had no previous medical history or smoking history. He began playing baseball at the age of nine and was a first baseman. His left index finger changed color to white or pale when exposed to cold temperatures for a period of four months (Fig. 1A). Upon examination, his index finger appeared significantly cold and displayed a purple color, along with a scar from an ulcer. No other fingers or toes displayed coldness. Laboratory data revealed no evidence of inflammatory reactions, diabetes, lipid abnormalities, antinuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factors, or cryoglobulins. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed severe hypoperfusion beyond the common palmar digital artery in the index finger (Fig. 1B). It has been reported that some baseball players, both professional and amateur, develop ischemia in their fingers due to repetitive ball impacts, which can sometimes prematurely end their playing careers. We believe that the repeated impact of the baseball gradually disrupted blood flow, similar to vibration-related diseases, leading to the development of Raynaud's symptoms. His symptoms were not alleviated by alprostadil, but improved by cilostazol. Currently, he can continue playing baseball.
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FundingNone of the authors have any financial disclosures or funding.
Conflict of interestNone declared.
