Capillaroscopy: vascular changes examination

Capillaroscopy is the basic diagnostic tool in the recognition of morphological and functional microcirculation abnormalities. It operates in non-invasive examination of the small blood vessels located within the nail shaft. These small vessels are also known as capillaries, hence the name “capillaroscopy”.

This is the basic diagnostic method in the search for the causes of the Raynaud’s phenomenon which includes a paroxysmal hands freezing with a blanching (up to the total numbness) of the fingers and feet.
The phenomenon itself is extremely frequent, as it affects even 10-20% of the population, but it should be remembered that it may be the first step towards connective tissue diseases, i.e. systemic sclerosis, lupus erythematosus or dermatomyositis.

PRE-EXAMINATION RECOMMENDATIONS

• 2 weeks before the examination, all the actions that may lead to the break of the “skins” in the area of fingers i.e. manicure, nail skin incorporation shall be discontinued
• 2 hours before the treatment – smoking, tee is not allowed

COURSE OF EXAMINATION

The examination takes about 15 minutes. After applying a drop of immersion oil, the microcirculation assessment within the nail shaft, most commonly between the fingers III and IV of both hands (alternatively within the toes) is performed. The examination is carried out using a videocapillaroscope, which allows the digital image documentation and the presentation of vascular lesions findings to the patient on a screen displayed. The examination is totally non-invasive and not painful, so patients can plan to back to work or their daily activities right after the examination.
The examination at Derma Point is carried out by Dr Bartosz Miziołek who has completed a specialized course of capillaroscopy organized by European League Againt Rheumatism (EULAR).