Mean Capillary Density Research Articles

Nailfold capillary changes in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients: An observational analytical study

IntroductionNail Fold capillaroscopy (NFC) is used to evaluate microvascular changes in the horizontally lying capillaries in the proximal nail fold. Arterial hypertension affects the microvascular beds producing structural changes. Our objective was to evaluate qualitative and quantitative NFC changes in newly diagnosed hypertensives as compared to age and sex matched normotensive controls and to determine association, if any, with microvascular changes visualized on fundoscopy. Materials and methodsThis observational, analytical study involved 41 newly diagnosed hypertensives (18–60 years) with 41 normotensive age and sex matched normotensive controls. The mean capillary density (MCD) and morphological changes were assessed for all, while fundoscopy was done for study group participants. The collected data was statistically analyzed. ResultsThe MCD in newly diagnosed hypertensives (5.21 ± 0.90 capillaries/mm) was significantly lower than normotensive controls (6.50 ± 0.65 capillaries/mm) (p < 0.001) in our study. Qualitative morphologic changes were more common in hypertensive patients including meandering capillaries, capillary dilation, avascular areas, bushy capillaries, and microhemorrhages (p value <0.001). Capillary disarray (73.17%) was a unique morphologic change seen significantly more commonly in study group (p < 0.001). Among hypertensives, MCD was lesser in patients with retinopathy (p = 0.125) and with microalbuminuria, while avascular areas and dilated capillaries were significantly more common. ConclusionOur study supports the role of NFC with USB dermatoscope in detecting unique microvascular morphological alterations in hypertensives, which were more frequent as well as distinctive, as compared to healthy controls. A good correlation with fundoscopic features and microalbuminuria suggests that it could be useful in predicting/detecting cardiovascular, or renal complications early, with an advantage of easy accessibility and repeatability.

The Effect of Adipose Stromal Vascular Fraction on the Viability of Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap after Abdominoplasty

Introduction: A prior abdominoplasty is considered as an absolute contraindication to transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (TRAM) flap surgery. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of nonexpanded adipose stromal vascular fraction (ASVF) on the viability of TRAM flap after abdominoplasty. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups. Reverse abdominoplasty model was used in all groups except Group 1. TRAM flap was performed 2 weeks after abdominoplasty in Groups 2 and 4 and 4 weeks after in Groups 3 and 5. ASVF cells were injected during abdominoplasty in Groups 4 and 5. The viable flap area (VFA) percentage and newly formed perforators were assessed. Capillary density and fibrosis gradient and plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were measured. Results: The mean VFA to total flap area was measured as 82.90% ± 7.59%, 3.31% ± 3.29%, 9.40% ± 6.18%, 31.92% ± 9.29%, and 64.98% ± 10.95% in Group 1, Group 2, Group 3, Group 4, and Group 5, respectively (P &lt; 0.05). The number of newly formed musculocutaneous perforating arteries was 0.29 ± 0.49, 1.14 ± 0.69, and 2 ± 0.82 for Groups 3, 4, and 5, respectively (P &lt; 0.05). The mean capillary density was 6.86 ± 0.50, 0.67 ± 0.13, 2.79 ± 0.53, 3.71 ± 0.47, and 7.01 ± 0.70 in Groups 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively (P &lt; 0.05). There was a statistically significant increase between the baseline VEGF values and the second VEGF values in Groups 4 and 5. Conclusions: The study showed that local injection of ASVF increases the viability of TRAM flap after abdominoplasty.

Evaluation of capillary density in psoriasis: An intrapatient study and literature review.

BackgroundDilated and tortuous vessels within elongated dermal papillae represent a histopathological clue of psoriasis. However, the number of dilated capillaries (capillary density) in psoriasis remains undefined as the results from the available studies differ significantly.ObjectivesTo evaluate the capillary density in psoriasis using dermoscopy and horizontal histopathological sections (HHS), two techniques that share the horizontal view of the skin, and to compare the results with the existing data.MethodsTwenty adult patients with stable plaque psoriasis were enrolled and, in each patient, a target area of the examined plaque, previously engraved by gently rotating a 5-mm biopsy punch device, underwent dermoscopy and biopsy for HHS. In all examined fields, capillary density was evaluated in a centered 4-mm diameter area, counting the number of red dots at dermoscopy and of dermal papillae at HHS.ResultsA total of 20 target lesions located on the trunk, arms and tights were evaluated. The mean capillary density resulting from dermoscopy was 43.02±6.60/mm 2 whereas that from HHS was 50.30±9.05/mm 2. These data showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.006), with a strong correlation at Pearson’s test (r = 0.88).ConclusionsOur results when compared with those from the existing literature showed some differences. The peculiarity of our work is represented by the precise measurement and correlation of the capillary density using two different methods, as the preliminary skin engraving allowed a perfect match between the area undergoing dermoscopy and that of skin sampling for HHS. Compared to dermoscopy in which deep-located vessels might have gone undetected, HHS seems to reflect more precisely and reliably the real capillary density showing an average of 50 capillaries/mm 2 that in a common 5x5 cm psoriatic patch corresponds to an average of 125.000 capillaries. These results highlight the extraordinary potential of psoriatic skin to develop such a complex and intricate vascular network.

Noninvasive, in vivo assessment of the cervical microcirculation using incident dark field imaging

AimThis study evaluates the feasibility of handheld vital microscopy for noninvasive, objective assessment of the microcirculation of the human uterine cervix. We qualitatively and quantitatively describe the microcirculation in healthy subjects in order to provide a basis for its application in cervical pathology. MethodsIncident dark field imaging was used to image the microcirculation in four quadrants of the uterine ectocervix in ten healthy participants. If the squamocolumnar junction was visible, measurements were repeated on the endocervical columnar epithelium as well. Image acquisition time was recorded and participants scored the experienced level of discomfort. Angioarchitecture was classified according to Weber's classification. Quantitative parameters included capillary density (CD), total and perfused vessel density (TVD, PVD), proportion of perfused vessels (PPV) and microvascular flow index (MFI). ResultsImage acquisition was easy, fast and well tolerated. Angioarchitecture was characterized by two distinctive and organized patterns; capillary loops underneath the squamous epithelium of the ectocervix and vascular networks underneath the columnar epithelium. In the image sequences containing capillary loops, mean CD was 33.2 cpll/mm2 (95% CI 28.2–38.2 cpll/mm2). In the image sequences with vascular networks, mean TVD was 12.5 mm/mm2 (95% CI 11.2–13.77 mm/mm2), mean PVD was 12.2 (95% CI 11.0–13.5 mm/mm2), MFI was 3 and PPV was 100%. ConclusionsIncident dark field imaging allows for noninvasive, real time visualization and objective evaluation and quantification of the microcirculation of the uterine cervix. The organized vascular patterns and optimal perfusion observed in healthy subjects allow for comparison with cervical pathology, for example in patients with cervical dysplasia or cervical cancer.

Value of Nailfold Capillaroscopy as A Screening Method for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) represents one of the main clinical pictures of microvascular damage in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Objective: To assess the role of nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) changes as a screening tool for the existence of PAH in patients with systemic sclerosis. Patients and methods: Forty SSc patients were studied, included: 20 patients with PAH (diagnosed by transthoracic echocardiography and confirmed by right heart catheterization) and another 20 without PAH. History taking, clinical examination, and laboratory investigations including serological biomarkers (anti-centromere and anti-topoisomerase1 antibodies) have been recorded. NFC was performed for all patients according to the standard method. Results: Scleroderma patients with PAH had significantly a longer disease duration (p=0.002) and higher frequencies of positive anticentromere and anti-topoisomerase 1 antibodies (p=0.011 and p=0.010 respectively). As regard NFC picture, SSc patients without PAH had significantly higher frequencies of early scleroderma pattern changes in 73.7% (p= 0.003), avascular area score 0 in 52.6% (p=0.014) and total NFC score 0 in 57.9% (p=0.022). In contrast, SSc patients with PAH showed higher frequencies of late scleroderma pattern changes in 50% (p=0.005) with lower capillary density (p <0.001), increased number of dilated mega-capillaries (p=0.049) together with more advanced avascular area of score 3 in 47.6% (p=0.007) and total NFC of score 3 in 45% (p=0.003). A significant negative correlation between mean pulmonary arterial pressure and capillary density (r=-0.57, p<0.001) was reported. Conclusion: Low capillary density together with wide avascular areas and more severe NFC scores have a clear association with the presence of PAH.

Value of Nailfold Capillaroscopy as A Screening Method for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) represents one of the main clinical pictures of microvascular damage in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Objective: To assess the role of nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) changes as a screening tool for the existence of PAH in patients with systemic sclerosis. Patients and methods: Forty SSc patients were studied, included: 20 patients with PAH (diagnosed by transthoracic echocardiography and confirmed by right heart catheterization) and another 20 without PAH. History taking, clinical examination, and laboratory investigations including serological biomarkers (anti-centromere and anti-topoisomerase1 antibodies) have been recorded. NFC was performed for all patients according to the standard method. Results: Scleroderma patients with PAH had significantly a longer disease duration (p=0.002) and higher frequencies of positive anticentromere and anti-topoisomerase 1 antibodies (p=0.011 and p=0.010 respectively). As regard NFC picture, SSc patients without PAH had significantly higher frequencies of early scleroderma pattern changes in 73.7% (p= 0.003), avascular area score 0 in 52.6% (p=0.014) and total NFC score 0 in 57.9% (p=0.022). In contrast, SSc patients with PAH showed higher frequencies of late scleroderma pattern changes in 50% (p=0.005) with lower capillary density (p <0.001), increased number of dilated mega-capillaries (p=0.049) together with more advanced avascular area of score 3 in 47.6% (p=0.007) and total NFC of score 3 in 45% (p=0.003). A significant negative correlation between mean pulmonary arterial pressure and capillary density (r=-0.57, p<0.001) was reported. Conclusion: Low capillary density together with wide avascular areas and more severe NFC scores have a clear association with the presence of PAH.

Vascular Density and Retinal Function in Patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa Evaluated by Swept-Source OCT Angiography and Microperimetry

Purpose: To determine the retinal and choroidal vessel density in the macular area with swept-source optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography (SS-OCTA) in patients affected by retinitis pigmentosa (RP), to compare their data with those on healthy subjects, and to study a possible morphofunctional correlation by microperimetry (MP-1). Methods: A total of 40 eyes of 40 patients affected by RP and 24 eyes of 24 healthy subjects were included in the study. Manually moving down the segmentation line of the SS-OCTA, we have evaluated the vessel density for the superficial retinal plexus, deep retinal plexus, choriocapillaris, and three levels of the choroid. Results: Linear regression analyses were performed of the retinal structure and function. No significant correlation was detected in any case (R² = 0, p > 0.05). A comparison between RP and healthy controls revealed a significant reduction in SS-OCTA mean capillary density in the RP group (p = 0.0011). This relationship was consistent across vascular layers (p = 0.2413). A significant association between the capillary density of the various vascular complexes was detected within individual eyes (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: This study represents the first comparing MP-1 and SS-OCTA data in the largest cohort of patients. RP patients showed a reduction in both the retinal and the choroidal vascular network in the macular area compared to healthy subjects.

Discordant Microvascular and Epicardial Disease in Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy

Angiography and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) of the epicardial coronary vasculature are routinely undertaken for cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) assessment. Microvascular disease is common in CAV and may occur independently of epicardial disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between microvascular disease, epicardial disease and microvascular dysfunction in heart transplant (HT) patients. A retrospective analysis was performed of HT patients who underwent coronary angiography, IVUS, and endomyocardial biopsy (EMB). Epicardial CAV was defined as ISHLT CAV1-3 on angiography and maximal intimal thickness (MIT) ≥0.5 mm on IVUS. Microvascular disease was defined as Hiemann et al. microvasculopathy grade B-D on EMB. Capillary density (CD) was quantified on EMB by manual count of CD31 stained vessels per 0.6 mm2. Microvascular dysfunction was defined as index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR) ≥20. Fifty-two patients were evaluated: 37 (72%) males, mean age 50.6 ± 14.3 years, 2.6 ± 4.5 years post-HT. Invasive coronary studies and EMB were performed at mean 33 ± 55 days apart. Microvasculopathy was present in 13 (25%) patients and epicardial CAV in 20 (63%) patients on angiography and 37 (71%) on IVUS. Of 25 patients who underwent invasive hemodynamics, 15 (60%) had microvascular dysfunction. Microvasculopathy prevalence did not differ between patients with and without epicardial CAV or microvascular dysfunction (Figure). Discordant microvascular and epicardial disease was observed in 27 (52%) patients by angiography and 32 (62%) by IVUS. Isolated evaluation with angiography, IVUS and IMR missed microvasculopathy in 10 (19%), 4 (8%) and 3 (12%) patients, respectively. There was no difference in mean CD between patients with and without epicardial CAV or correlation of CD with MIT or IMR. There is high discordance of microvascular and epicardial disease in CAV. Assessment by angiography and IVUS alone may under-detect microvascular disease.

Nail fold capillaroscopic changes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: An observational, comparative study

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disease affecting microvascular circulation causing complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Nail fold capillaroscopy (NFC) is an in vivo study of microvascular circulation. Aim: The aim of this study is to describe and quantify NFC changes in type 2 diabetics. Materials and Methods: NFC was done for all 10 fingernails for 96 patients with T2DM (as per the American Diabetes Association criteria) and 40 healthy controls. The diabetics were further subdivided into two groups: those with microvascular complications (Group 1, n = 46) and those without any (Group 2, n = 50). Results: Demographic profile was comparable in both the groups. Overall, 80.2% (77/96) of the patients with T2DM showed NFC changes as compared to 12.5% of the healthy controls. Unique morphological alterations in T2DM were angulated and receding capillaries. Mean capillary density was overall reduced, especially in Group 1 (6.57 ± 1.02 capillary/mm) as compared to Group 2 (7.03 ± 1.09 capillary/mm) (P = 0.67). Overall, 89.13% of Group 1 patients had NFC changes as compared to 72% in Group 2 (P = 0.035). Specific morphological changes were also significantly more common in Group 1 than Group 2, including tortuosity (P = 0.035), meandering capillaries (P = 0.004), capillary dropouts (P = 0.012), and bizarre capillaries (P = 0.002). Limitations: A larger sample size study with different demographic populations could have provided a broader picture of NFC changes in T2DM. Conclusion: Our study suggests that NFC changes are correlated with microvascular complications in type 2 diabetics, possibly helping in noninvasive identification of patients at risk.

Nailfold capillaroscopy with USB dermatoscope: A cross-sectional study in healthy adults.

Nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC) is a convenient method for studying capillary morphology in the proximal nailfold (PNF) and is used for the evaluation of connective tissue and other diseases affecting the microvasculature. However, capillary density and morphological patterns in healthy individuals are largely unknown and this compromises the evaluation of the microvasculature in disease states. To describe and quantify the morphological characteristics of nailfold capillaries in healthy adult Indians. A USB 2.0 dermatoscope (Dinolite AM413ZT) with polarizing light was used to study nailfold capillary characteristics in 50 consecutive healthy adult individuals. NFC was performed on all 10 fingers. Images were assessed for both quantitative and qualitative features. The mean capillary density in healthy Indian adults was 7.63 ± 1.12 capillary/mm. Tortuosity (22%), meandering capillaries (14%) and microhemorrhages (14%) were frequently seen in these individuals. The small sample size limited a conclusive determination of statistically significant differences in NFC findings with respect to gender and age. NFC with a USB dermatoscope is a useful technique for studying the PNF capillaries. The normal PNF capillary density in healthy Indian adults was 7.63 ± 1.12 capillary/mm. Capillary alterations such as tortuosity, meandering capillaries and microhemorrhages are seen in a significant number of healthy individuals.

Quantitative Evaluation of the Retinal Vascular Parameters With OCTA in Patients With Behçet Disease Without Ocular Involvement.

To evaluate the optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) features of patients with Behçet disease (BD) without ocular involvement. Twenty-three patients with BD without ocular involvement and 29 healthy age/sex-matched control subjects were involved. The authors measured foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, vessel density in the parafoveal region, and flow area (fovea-centered 3-mm radius area) in the superficial and deep capillary plexuses evaluated by OCTA. FAZ area was significantly larger in eyes with BD in both the superficial and deep capillary plexuses (0.331 vs. 0.240 mm2 [P = .004] and 0.352 vs. 0.257 mm2 [P = .003], respectively). Although mean capillary vessel density in parafoveal region and mean flow area were lower in eyes with BD for both superficial and deep capillary plexuses, these findings were not statistically significant. Microvascular changes in macular region can be identified in patients with BD without ocular manifestation. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2020;51:31-34.].

Vascular endothelial growth factor in systemic lupus erythematosus in correlations with disease activity and nailfold capillaroscopic changes

BackgroundAngiogenesis plays a role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Both serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and capillaroscopic abnormalities may reflect intensity of microcirculatory changes in the course of SLE.AimsTo quantify serum VEGF level and its correlation with microvascular changes, assessed by nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC), and possible relationship with SLE activity.Patients and methodsA total of 90 patients with SLE were subjected to detailed medical history and clinical examination and assessment of disease activity using the SLE Disease Activity Index score and organ damage using Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/ American College of Rheumatology damage index. Laboratory investigations were done including autoantibodies [anti-nuclear antibody, anti-DNA, anti-cardiolipin (immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M), and lupus anticoagulant]. VEGF serum level was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. NFC examination was done for recognition of NFC abnormalities.ResultsSerum VEGF level was elevated in the entire study group (mean of 831±572 ng/l), with a statistically highly significant correlation with Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology damage index and SLE Disease Activity Index score of disease activity (r=0.349, P=0.001, and r=0.897, P<0.001, respectively), together with a significant positive correlation with the presence of nephritis (P=0.002), positive anti-double-stranded DNA (P≤0.001), and consumed C3 and C4 (P≤0.001), which are laboratory markers indicating lupus activity. Moreover, a higher serum VEGF level was associated with severe NFC changes with a statistically highly significant positive correlation with the capillary width (r=0.561, P<0.001), capillary length (r=0.411, P<0.001), and mean capillary density (r=0.308, P=0.003).ConclusionIncreased serum VEGF level and progression of NFC score had been directly related to lupus activity and internal organ involvement, especially nephritis.

FRACTAL DIMENSION AND OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY FEATURES OF THE CENTRAL MACULA AFTER REPAIR OF RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENTS.

Patients with macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs) may have suboptimal visual recovery, despite successful reattachment due to various reasons. This study was performed to evaluate the retinal microvasculature in subjects undergoing surgery for RRD using optical coherence tomography angiography. In this case-control study, the analysis of optical coherence tomography angiography findings of 19 eyes of 19 patients (15 men) who underwent RRD surgery at a tertiary institute were compared with 19 eyes of 19 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects with no known ocular disease. 3 × 3-mm optical coherence tomography angiography scans were obtained at 3 months postoperatively and analyzed. Optical coherence tomography angiography images of patients with RRD and control subjects were analyzed for capillary density index and fractal dimensions. Mean age of the patients was 40.21 years, and the mean age of controls was 43.73 years. Eight eyes underwent scleral buckling alone, and 11 eyes underwent primary vitrectomy with gas tamponade (C3F8 gas) for macula-off RRD. None of the eyes had redetachment during the follow-up at 3 months. Mean capillary density index among patients was 33.28% ± 0.99% and 34.06% ± 2.22% in the superficial and deep retinal plexuses, respectively, compared with 36.11% ± 1.29% and 37.52% ± 1.24% among controls (P < 0.001). The mean fractal dimension was lower among subjects compared with controls (1.46 vs. 1.61 in the superficial plexus, P < 0.001; 1.58 vs. 1.64 in the deep plexus, P < 0.001). Optical coherence tomography angiography demonstrates significant reduction in mean capillary density index and fractal dimension in patients after surgery for RRD in our patients. Thus, reduction in vascular perfusion and branching pattern identified using novel analysis techniques on optical coherence tomography angiography images may provide an insight into the reasons for suboptimal visual gain after RRD surgery.

ANATOMICAL AND FUNCTIONAL TESTING IN DIABETIC PATIENTS WITHOUT RETINOPATHY

To assess early retinal microvascular and functional changes in diabetic patients without clinical evidence of diabetic retinopathy with optical coherence tomography angiography and central visual analyzer. This was an observational case-control study of diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy and nondiabetic controls. Patients underwent optical coherence tomography angiography imaging and visual acuity testing using the central visual analyzer. The foveal avascular zone area and the capillary density in the superficial and deep capillary plexuses were measured manually by a masked grader. Sixty eyes from 35 diabetic patients were included in the study group, and 45 eyes from 31 nondiabetic patients were included in the control group. The foveal avascular zone area was not significantly different between the diabetic group and controls (both P > 0.05). The mean capillary density in the deep capillary plexus was significantly lower in diabetic eyes compared with control eyes (P = 0.04). The mean visual acuity in all central visual analyzer modules was significantly decreased in diabetic patients compared with controls (all P < 0.05). Optical coherence tomography angiography was able to detect retinal microvascular changes in the deep capillary plexus, and the central visual analyzer showed signs of decreased visual acuity under conditions simulating suboptimal contrast and glare in diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy.

Nailfold capillaroscopy and autoimmune connective tissue diseases in patients from a Portuguese nailfold capillaroscopy clinic.

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is frequent in autoimmune connective tissue diseases (AICTD) and its approach includes nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC), as it is a non-invasive technique that permits direct visualization of the microcirculation. The aim of this study is to analyze and establish clinical correlations between NFC findings and particular aspects of autoimmune disorders. This is a retrospective study. Clinical data from patients attending our NFC clinic were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included AICTD previous diagnosis, which included systemic sclerosis (SSc), mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren syndrome, inflammatory idiopathic myopathies (IIM), rheumatoid arthritis, undifferentiated connective tissue disease and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Videocap® version 3.0 biomicroscope was used. NFC score was determined. For statistics, SPSS software was utilized. 384 patients were included; most of them were women, with mean age of 47years. RP was present in 91% of the patients, with greater prevalence in SSc and MCTD. Scleroderma pattern was the most prevalent NFC pattern, mainly in SSc, MCTD and IIM. Mean capillary density was reduced in IIM, SSc and MCTD. NFC score was worse in SSc, IIM and MCTD. In patients with AICTD, RP is related to microvascular damage and worse NFC score. NFC scleroderma pattern correlates with SSc classification criteria score. In MCTD, scleroderma pattern relates to myositis. SLE and APS reveal significant hemorrhages, but not related to APS antibodies. This study highlights the possible role of NFC as biomarker of AICTD, particularly in SSc and IIM.

Occlusion de branche veineuse rétinienne : analyse anatomo-fonctionnelle par Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiographie (OCT-Angiographie)

The purpose of our study was to describe the microvascular abnormalities on OCT-angiography in eyes with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), to measure the surface of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) and the capillary density, and to establish anatomic-functional correlations. We conducted an observational prospective study in the ophthalmology department of Habib Thameur Hospital in Tunis, which included 17 eyes of patients with unilateral BRVO. We studied the microvascular abnormalities and areas of capillary non-perfusion in the deep and superficial capillary plexuses (DCP, SCP). The area of the FAZ was measured in the SCP and correlated to visual acuity. The foveal and parafoveal capillary density was measured with flow quantification software. The mean patient age was 57.94 ±18.04 years. Male:female ratio was approximately 1. Fourteen eyes (82.4%) showed cystoid macular edema which was significantly correlated to poor visual acuity (P=0.02). Vascular congestion was present in 12 eyes (70.60%) in the DCP and 8 eyes (47.1%) in the SCP. Intraretinal loops were found in 5 eyes (29.4%) in the DCP and 8 eyes (47.1%) in the SCP. Thirteen eyes (76.5%) exhibited vascular tortuosity in the DCP, and 14 eyes (82.4%) in the SCP. Areas of capillary non-perfusion were observed in 12 eyes (70.60%). The mean area of the FAZ was 617.53±525.75μ in eyes with BRVO. Enlargement of the FAZ was correlated to visual loss (P=0.01). Mean foveal capillary density was 15.49% (±5.18%), and mean peripheral capillary density was 44% (±4.75%). There was no correlation between vascular density and visual acuity in our series. OCT-angiography is part of the current diagnostic workup for RVO. It has a relevant role in establishing a prognosis by studying the area of the FAZ and the capillary density.

PARAFOVEAL MICROVASCULAR FEATURES ON OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY IN EYES WITH CIRCUMSCRIBED CHOROIDAL HEMANGIOMA.

To evaluate parafoveal microvasculature in eyes with circumscribed choroidal hemangioma using optical coherence tomography angiography. Fourteen eyes with unilateral circumscribed choroidal hemangioma were imaged using OCT for central macular thickness and optical coherence tomography angiography for superficial and deep foveal avascular zone area, and superficial and deep capillary density (CD), comparing affected and paired fellow eyes. Mean patient age was 53 years, and mean visual acuity was 20/60 in the involved eye and 20/25 in the fellow eye. In the affected eye, clinical findings included cystoid macular edema (CME) in 1, parafoveal/subfoveal subretinal fluid (SRF) in three, and both CME and SRF in two eyes. OCT revealed current CME/SRF in six eyes, and normal foveal contour in eight eyes, among which five never demonstrated OCT evidence of CME or SRF. By OCT (affected vs. fellow eye), mean central macular thickness was greater in affected eyes (312 vs. 264 μm, P = 0.042). By optical coherence tomography angiography, there was no difference in superficial foveal avascular zone (P = 0.327), deep foveal avascular zone (P = 0.563), and superficial CD (P = 0.159), but mean deep plexus CD was reduced in affected eyes (50% vs. 54%, P = 0.010). Subgroup analysis showed that eyes with previous or current CME and/or SRF had reduced deep plexus CD (53% vs. 57%, P = 0.005), while eyes without previous/current CME/SRF had similar deep plexus CD (P = 0.399) compared with fellow eyes. Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma generally does not affect parafoveal inner retinal microvasculature. However, a reduction in deep plexus CD can be expected in eyes with previous or current CME/SRF.

Nailfold Capillaroscopy of Fingers and Toes - Variations of Normal.

Nailfold capillaroscopy is the only method for morphological assessment of nutritive capillaries. The literature data about capillaroscopic findings in healthy individuals are scarce. To evaluate and compare the capillaroscopic findings of fingers and toes in healthy subjects. 22 healthy individuals were included in the study. Capillaroscopic examination was performed with videocapillaroscope Videocap 3.0 (DS Medica). Exclusion criteria were as follows: history of vasospasm, presence of accompanying diseases, taking any medications, arterial hypertension in first degree relatives, overweight or obesity (body mass index > 25kg/m2) and presence of chronic arterial or venous insufficiency. Poor visibility of nailfold capillaries was found significantly more frequently in the toes (22.7%, 5/22) as compared with fingers (0/22). Slight irregularities in capillary distribution and orientation to their parallel axis were significantly more common in the toes (31.8%, 7/22) as compared with fingers (9%, 2/22), (p<0.05). The mean diameter of the arterial (0.012±0.002mm) and the venous limb (0.017±0.002mm) of the toes did not differ significantly as compared to the respective parameters in the fingers (0.013±0.002mm for the arterial limb, p=0.46 and 0.018±0.002mm for the venous limb, p=0.25). The mean capillary density also did not differ significantly in the fingers and toes. The mean capillary length of the toes (0.165±0.096mm) was shorter as compared with hands (0.220±0.079mm), but the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.37). Presence of tortuous capillaries (>10%) was found significantly more often in the toes (12/22) as compared with fingers (6/22, χ2=6.769, p<0.05). Short capillary loops (length<100µm) were observed significantly more often in the toes (11/22 - toes, 1/22 - fingers, χ2=14.666, p<0.05). Capillaroscopic examination of the toes shows some differences as compared to those of the fingers such as greater number of cases with poor visibility and slight irregularities of distribution, greater number of shorter capillaries and increased tortuosity, which might be related to the thicker epidermis of the toes and increased capillary pressure due to gravity. The values of the major capillaroscopic parameters such as capillary diameters and capillary density in fingers and toes do not differ significantly.

Capillaroscopic Findings in Primary Fibromyalgia.

Although Raynaud's Phenomenon (RP) is observed in a significant proportion of patients with primary fibromyalgia, the available data on capillaroscopic findings in primary fibromyalgia are scarce. The purpose of the study was to assess the capillaroscopic pattern in patients with primary fibromyalgia. 26 patients with primary fibromyalgia (25 women and 1 man) were included in the study. Mean age was 55±10 years. As control groups were examined 31 patients with primary RP and 35 healthy volunteers. Capillaroscopic examination was performed with a videocapillaroscope Videocap 3.0 (DS Medica), magnification 200x with analysis of the main capillaroscopic parameters as follows: capillary distribution, shape, mean capillary diameters and length, mean capillary density, visibility of the subpapillary plexus; presence of avascular areas, microhaemorrhages and neoangiogenic capillaries. Symptoms of RP were observed in 65% (17/26) of the cases with primary fibromyalgia. At capillaroscopic examination, the most frequent finding in patients with primary fibromyalgia was the presence of capillary dilation in 85% (22/26) of the patients - both in cases with and without RP. However, the mean arterial and venous capillary diameters were significantly higher in the subgroup of fibromyalgia patients with clinical symptoms of RP. Of note, microvascular abnormalities characteristic of connective tissue diseases could not be observed in primary fibromyalgia patients. Analogous changes - presence of dilated capillaries - were found in 96.6% (29/30) of patients with primary RP. In our study, the most frequent capillaroscopic finding in patients with primary fibromyalgia was the presence of dilated capillary loops analogous to primary RP. Capillaroscopic signs suggestive of connective tissue disease could not be found in primary fibromyalgia patients.

Visualization of Radial Peripapillary Capillaries Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography: The Effect of Image Averaging.

ObjectivesTo assess the effect of image registration and averaging on the visualization and quantification of the radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) network on optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).MethodsTwenty-two healthy controls were imaged with a commercial OCTA system (AngioVue, Optovue, Inc.). Ten 10x10° scans of the optic disc were obtained, and the most superficial layer (50-μm slab extending from the inner limiting membrane) was extracted for analysis. Rigid registration was achieved using ImageJ, and averaging of each 2 to 10 frames was performed in five ~2x2° regions of interest (ROI) located 1° from the optic disc margin. The ROI were automatically skeletonized. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), number of endpoints and mean capillary length from the skeleton, capillary density, and mean intercapillary distance (ICD) were measured for the reference and each averaged ROI. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to assess statistical significance. Three patients with primary open angle glaucoma were also imaged to compare RPC density to controls.ResultsQualitatively, vessels appeared smoother and closer to histologic descriptions with increasing number of averaged frames. Quantitatively, number of endpoints decreased by 51%, and SNR, mean capillary length, capillary density, and ICD increased by 44%, 91%, 11%, and 4.5% from single frame to 10-frame averaged, respectively. The 10-frame averaged images from the glaucomatous eyes revealed decreased density correlating to visual field defects and retinal nerve fiber layer thinning.ConclusionsOCTA image registration and averaging is a viable and accessible method to enhance the visualization of RPCs, with significant improvements in image quality and RPC quantitative parameters. With this technique, we will be able to non-invasively and reliably study RPC involvement in diseases such as glaucoma.