nailfold capillaroscopy caused by heart
Nailfold capillaroscopy is a non-invasive procedure used to evaluate the small blood vessels (capillaries) in the skin around the nails. It is often used to diagnose and monitor systemic sclerosis, a connective tissue disorder that affects the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs.
Systemic sclerosis can cause a wide range of symptoms, including thickening and hardening of the skin, blood vessel damage, and scarring of internal organs. It is not typically caused by heart disease, but it can affect the heart and other organs.
During nailfold capillaroscopy, the healthcare provider will use a special microscope called a capillaroscope to examine the capillaries in the nailfold (the skin surrounding the base of the nail). The capillaroscope magnifies the capillaries and allows the healthcare provider to see abnormalities in their structure and function.
Nailfold capillaroscopy is a safe and painless procedure with minimal risks. It is usually performed as an outpatient procedure and takes only a few minutes to complete. It can provide valuable information about the severity and progression of systemic sclerosis and help guide treatment decisions.
In some cases, systemic sclerosis may be associated with heart disease, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or left ventricular dysfunction (a problem with the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively). If a healthcare provider suspects that a patient with systemic sclerosis may have heart disease, they may recommend additional testing or referral to a cardiologist for further evaluation.
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