Dermatomiositis juvenil

Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive test, performed with a magnifying instrument equipped with a cold light source, which is used to study the small blood vessels found at the base of the nail, allowing us to determine their shape, size, distribution and number. Its usefulness lies in the fact that it can help us to detect microcirculation disorders at an early stage.

It has several indications, the most common being Raynaud's syndrome, and whether or not this phenomenon is present, it can be used to guide us in the study of autoimmune diseases, including JDM, and in other disorders in which vascular alterations may occur.

When we perform capillaroscopy on a patient with JDM, we can see a lack of capillary density, dilation of the capillaries, haemorrhages and, somewhat more characteristically, the presence of branching capillaries. It does not serve to differentiate it from other diseases, in fact, its usual pattern can be very similar to that of another autoimmune disease called scleroderma, but it can help us and guide us during the diagnosis and follow-up of the patient. The most recent studies show a relationship between capillaroscopic findings and active skin disease.

It has no contraindications and can be repeated as often as necessary.