Authors : Scardina G.A. and P. Messina
Abstract: he aim of this study is to verify labial microcirculation differences among healthy subjects and those with systemic sclerosis (SSc). 35 healthy patients and 35 patients suffering from systemic sclerosis were examined. Labial capillaroscopy was used to investigate the characteristics of microcirculation. For each patient we evaluated visibility, course, tortuosity and the possible presence of microhaemorrhages, average calibre of capillary loops and the number of visible capillary loops per square millimetre. The investigation of the labial mucous was simple, non invasive and repeatable for each patient. In SSc patients it was possible to observe a wide vascular architectural disorganisation, anarchical capillary orientation, morphologic anomalies of the capillary loops, loosening of the U shape, reduced length and increased capillary diameter. This study shows that capillary alterations in patients suffering from SSc, are not restricted to the naifold bed but also occur in the labial mucous microcirculation.
Scardina G.A. and P. Messina , 2006. Microcirculatory Abnormality Quantification in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis Using Labial Video Capillaroscopy. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 5: 636-640.