Capillaroscopy in physiatry and pain syndromes (CRPS – differential diagnosis)

CRPS shows autonomic and trophic changes; capillaroscopy is not a diagnostic criterion, but it can help with the differential diagnosis.

Relevant diagnoses:

CRPS type I (Budapest criteria) – in atypical cases with vascular signs or overlap with autoimmune diseases.

What is seen (findings in brief)

Findings can be heterogeneous: dilatations, microhaemorrhages and, less often, avascular areas; there is no single CRPS pattern. An abnormal NVC calls for investigation of secondary causes (e.g. the SSc spectrum).

How often to have a check-up

There is no standard; a baseline examination, then every 3–6 months, depending on the clinical picture and the rehabilitation plan.

Summary

In PRM/physiatry, capillaroscopy is useful for differential diagnosis and for documenting microvascular changes, not for confirming CRPS.