Abstract
Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is usually the first symptom in patients with systemic sclerosis (SS) and may precede skin changes by several months or years. Non-invasive measurements of skin elasticity are very sensitive and appropriate for objective and quantitative evaluation of sclerodermatous skin. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the mechanical properties of the skin in patients with primary, secondary, and suspected secondary RP. A total of 63 patients were studied. They were classified as having scleroderma-type nailfold capillary abnormalities--17 with indurative phase of scleroderma (group 1), nine with edematous phase of scleroderma (group 2), 18 with suspected secondary RP (group 3) and as having RP-type nailfold capillary abnormalities, 19 with primary RP (group 4). Thirty-nine sex- and age-matched healthy individuals with normal nailfold capillaroscopy pattern were also studied as controls. Mechanical properties of the skin were evaluated using a non-invasive suction device (Cutometer) equipped with a 2 mm probe. Measurements were performed over five anatomic regions: cheeks, volar forearms, wrists, hands, and proximal phalanx of the fingers. The skin mechanical parameters analyzed were distensibility (Uf), elasticity (Ua/Uf) and viscoelasticity (Uv/Ue). Most demonstrative changes were observed over volar forearms. Patients included in groups 1-3 were characterized by significantly lower Uf and higher Uv/Ue compared with patient group 4 and controls. Patient groups 1 and 2 showed significantly lower Ua/Uf, as well. There were no significant differences in skin mechanical parameters between patient group 4 and control group. Mechanical properties of the skin in patients with suspected secondary RP significantly differ from these in patients with primary RP and resemble those in patients with edematous phase of scleroderma. Our findings suggest that the non-invasive measurements of skin elasticity could be helpful in identifying patients with RP at risk of developing SS.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
