Vibration Syndrome: Cutaneous and Systemic Manifestations in a Jackhammer Operator

Vibration syndrome (VS), which typically presents as a variant of Raynaud's phenomenon, has been characterized recently as a multisystem disorder of the peripheral circulation, nerves, muscles, and joints. The sequelae of the disorder are irreversible, but most clinical evidence indicates that vibration injury is completely reversible by early intervention. Advanced VS occurred in a jackhammer operator; his condition went unrecognized for more than 11 years. The clinical findings illustrate the broad spectrum of pathologic abnormalities associated with VS and emphasize the need for increased physician awareness of this disabling condition.