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Nailfold capillary microscopy in polymyositis and dermatomyositis
M L Ganczarczyk1, P Lee, S K Armstrong
1University of Toronto Rheumatic Disease Unit, Wellesley Hospital, Ontario, Canada.
Arthritis and Rheumatism
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Nailfold capillary microscopy revealed distinct microvascular changes in polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM). Dermatomyositis patients showed more enlarged capillary loops and avascular lesions, suggesting disease-specific patterns.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Dermatology
- Microcirculation
Background:
- Polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM) are inflammatory myopathies with potential microvascular involvement.
- Understanding these microvascular changes can aid in diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare nailfold capillary microscopy findings in patients with polymyositis and dermatomyositis.
- To correlate microvascular abnormalities with clinical features and disease activity.
Main Methods:
- Nailfold capillary microscopy was conducted on 19 patients with PM and 16 patients with DM.
- Microvascular parameters including capillary loop size and avascular lesions were assessed.
Main Results:
- Enlarged capillary loops were observed in 56% of DM patients versus 21% of PM patients.
- Avascular lesions were more prevalent and severe in DM compared to PM.
- Raynaud's phenomenon, arthritis, and pulmonary involvement correlated with increased microvascular abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Nailfold capillary microscopy demonstrates distinct patterns of microvascular changes in DM and PM.
- Microvascular abnormalities in these conditions are associated with specific clinical manifestations and may improve with remission.