Thermography and nailfold capillaroscopy of the toes in SSc
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Thermography and nailfold capillaroscopy of the toes in patients with systemic sclerosis and Raynaud’s phenomenon
IRAS ID
256760
Contact name
Ariane Herrick
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 1 months, 5 days
Research summary
Raynaud's phenomenon (RP, episodic colour change of the extremities in the cold) is common, affecting approximately 5% of the general population when it is usually primary (idiopathic). Raynaud's phenomenon can also occur secondary to a number of diseases/conditions, including systemic sclerosis (SSc, also called 'scleroderma'). Over 95% of patients with SSc have RP, and RP is its most common presenting symptom. In patients with SSc, RP can be very severe, progressing in approximately 50% of patients to digital ulceration (ulceration of the fingers or toes). Although RP most obviously affect the fingers, toes can also be affected, resulting in pain and disability, especially if ulcers are present. However, RP of the toes has been much less studied than RP of the fingers.
This study therefore aims to increase our understanding of RP in the feet by imaging 40 patients with SSc and 20 healthy controls for comparison. Participants will have images taken of their hands and feet at Salford Royal hospital using mobile phone thermography to measure temperature changes. They will also have images taken of their small capillaries next to the nailbed using a technique called Nailfold capillaroscopy. The study visit will last approx. 30 minutes. By using these two non-invasive techniques we hope to gain a better insight into the degree of foot involvement in patients with SSc.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/YH/0048
Date of REC Opinion
25 Feb 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion