Capillaroscopy, a vital diagnostic tool for assessing blood vessel health in conditions like scleroderma, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and other vascular and connective tissue disorders, is advancing quickly with the latest offerings from Dino-Lite. This post will cover Dino-Lite’s newest capillaroscope model, recent research studies demonstrating the impact of capillaroscopy in clinical settings, and some best practices for maximizing the results with Dino-Lite capillaroscopes.
Introducing the New AF4535-N3UT
The AF4535-N3UT Capillaroscope is Dino-Lite’s latest capillaroscopy model, designed to enhance diagnostic accuracy and ease of use for practitioners. This model includes an expanded magnification range of 10x – 330x, using the nail cap, this model focuses at ~80x and ~300x. Its advanced imaging capabilities, including polarized light and the option for wireless connectivity with the WF-20 (sold separately), allow for the capture of detailed nailfold capillary images with precision. This makes it an ideal tool for diagnosing and monitoring microvascular changes associated with autoimmune and systemic diseases.
New Studies Highlighting Dino-Lite in Capillaroscopy
Research continues to underscore the importance of capillaroscopy in diagnosing and managing various conditions. Several recent studies reveal that Dino-Lite’s digital microscopes are being increasingly adopted in clinical settings for nailfold capillaroscopy and capillary imaging:
- A study published by Dermatology Advisor indicates that nailfold capillaroscopy could have diagnostic utility in identifying onychodystrophies, or nail disorders, often associated with systemic diseases. Link to Study
- Research highlighted in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology further explores the applications of nailfold capillaroscopy in dermatological conditions, specifically focusing on its value in assessing Raynaud’s phenomenon and other vascular abnormalities. Link to Study
These studies, along with others found in the European Journal of Medical Research and Bulgarian Rheumatology Society, underscore the increasing relevance of capillaroscopy and Dino-Lite in modern diagnostics.
Enhance Diagnostics with Capillary.io
Capillary.io, a cloud-based platform for managing capillaroscopy images and patient data, pairs well with Dino-Lite devices. It provides storage, analysis, and comparison tools that streamline workflows for clinicians. The integration of Capillary.io with Dino-Lite devices allows for seamless data transfer, empowering practitioners to compare images across different time points, conduct robust analyses, and improve patient outcomes through better tracking of disease progression.
Pro Tip: Digital Zoom for Enhanced Views in DinoCapture 3.0
Maximizing the digital zoom functionality can help capture fine details critical for assessment. A good technique is to start at a lower magnification for context and larger field of view and then use the digital zoom on specific areas of interest. In a sample gallery linked below, we show the AM8517MZT and AF4535-N3UT’s digital zoom capabilities and how they can enable clinicians to view structures at higher magnification levels, which can provide a more accurate understanding of the capillary health.
Recommended Models for Capillaroscopy
For optimal performance in capillaroscopy, we recommend the following Dino-Lite models:
- AF7515-N2UT: Ideal for practitioners needing flexibility and high resolution, with polarizing options and fluid handling.
- ~50x & ~200x with N3C-N cap.
- AF4515-N2UT: Known for its ease of use and high-quality imaging, especially for capillary assessments.
- ~50x & ~200x with N3C-N cap.
- AF4535-N3UT: The latest model, offering additional magnification range.
- ~80x & ~300x with N3C-N cap.
Each of these models provides unique benefits, making them versatile tools for various medical and research applications in capillaroscopy.
Dino-Lite Medical at ACR Convergence 2024
The worlds premier rheumatology event is ACR Convergence, this years event is in Washington D.C. on November 16 -18. If you’ll be there, stop by and try our scopes at booth 2704.
Conclusion
Dino-Lite’s latest advances in capillaroscopy continue to empower clinicians with the tools needed for detailed, non-invasive vascular assessments. With the new AF4535-N3UT model, supportive research, and digital tools like Capillary.io, practitioners can more accurately diagnose and monitor conditions related to microvascular health. For clinics and research facilities aiming to enhance their capillaroscopy capabilities, Dino-Lite’s cutting-edge devices offer a reliable and effective solution.
