Capillaroscopy

Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive, painless diagnostic test that allows assessment of the condition of capillaries - capillaries, and consequently the diagnosis of abnormalities related to microcirculation. It involves observing capillaries through the transparent layer of skin covering them at high magnification, obtained with a capillaroscopic microscope.

The examination is performed in the nail shafts of the fingers, the area at the border of the nail and skin. If necessary, capillaroscopy can be repeated several times. Immediately after the examination, the patient receives a description. 

Indications for the examination: 

• diagnosis and evaluation of the course and treatment of systemic connective tissue diseases (such as systemic scleroderma),
• Raynaud's sign (successive fading, bruising and then reddening of the skin of the fingers when exposed to cold),
• assessment of diabetes, psoriasis and peripheral vascular diseases.

• 3 weeks before the test, do not perform any cosmetic procedures on your hands, especially cutting the cuticles - the microdamage created during such procedures can falsify the capillaroscopic image. 
• You should arrive at the facility about 15 minutes before the scheduled time. This is to allow the body to adjust to room temperature. This is especially important during the autumn and winter.
• 4 hours before the examination, do not smoke or drink coffee or strong tea.