The few reported anatomical observations of mitral valve prolapse (MVP) have demonstrated the presence of degenerative changes and mucopolysaccharide accumulation (mucoid or myxomatous degeneration) 4, 5, 6, 12). Similar lesions may also be seen at the level of the aortic valve (10) and aortic root (8, 9); they increase in frequency with advancing age (11, 13) and seem to be devoid of specificity (13). A comparison with the forme fruste of Marfan’s syndrome has been made (14) on the basis of similar sites and nature of anatomical abnormalities.

SummaryThirteen of thirty-four patients presenting with Raynaud's phenomenon were found to have subjective and/or objective signs of a carpal tunnel syndrome.The vasospastic crises were alleviated in eight out of nine patients treated by chlorthalidone.It is therefore suggested that Raynaud's phenomenon may be the dominant presenting feature of a carpal tunnel syndrome.