Title:Capillaroscopy in Routine Diagnostics: Potentials and Limitations
Volume: 14
Issue: 1
Author(s): Francesca Ingegnoli, Vanessa Smith, Alberto Sulli and Maurizio Cutolo*
Affiliation:
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova,Italy
Keywords:
Nailfold capillaroscopy, systemic sclerosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, microcirculation, systemic sclerosis, autoantibodies,
biomarkers, imaging, classification criteria, differential diagnosis, connective tissue diseases.
Abstract: Background: Nailfold capillaroscopy is a safe and useful investigational tool that allows
an early detection and a qualitative description of the microvascular abnormalities in patients with
Raynaud's phenomenon secondary to scleroderma-spectrum disorders. Nowadays, the role of capillaroscopy
in the diagnosis of systemic sclerosis is well known. Capillaroscopy has been included in
the new 2013 classification criteria for systemic sclerosis and is considered a key investigation in
the very early phases of the disease.
Conclusion: Because of its potential value in monitoring disease progression and treatment response,
nailfold capillaroscopy may also have a role in the management of overt systemic sclerosis.
Results: Its application in scleroderma-spectrum disorders in which a microvascular component is
suspected may also provide new insights into their pathophysiology.
