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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Oral microcirculation observed in vivo by videocapillaroscopy: a review

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Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that is fundamental in viewing peripheral circulation and in studying microangiopathies. The morphological study of microcirculat ion is of fundamental importance, mainly because the microvascular bed is directly involved in the etiopathogenesis of autoimmune disorders and acute and chronic inflammatory pathological conditions. The value of capillaroscopic investigation as a diagnostic means in cases of peripheral microcirculation disorders has been confirmed by numerous studies. Other studies used capillaroscopic investigations to evaluate microcirculation damage not as a complication of disease (diabetes), but as its initial stage, and therefore to make a diagnosis. Capillaroscopy is an interesting method of studying microcirculation, because of the possibility of studying small vessels in vivo by means of a microscope. Today, it has become more reliable, thanks to the development of observation tools (photography, videomicroscopy). This review describes in detail various aspects of the microcirculation of the oral mucosa. (J Oral Sci 51, 1-10, 2009)