Effects of Peripheral Cold Exposure on Microvascular Dynamics in Systemic Sclerosis

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Objective. To determine the influence of cold exposure on microvascular permeability in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods. Thirteen patients with SSc were studied by dynamic fluorescence videomicroscopy under basal conditions and after exposure to cold. Results. Exposure to cold caused a significant reduction in the interstitial concentration of sodium fluorescein (P < 0.05 to 0.001). Conclusion. Our findings show that cold exposure has a striking effect on microvascular dynamics in SSc.