ABSTRACT
Photographs taken of the microscopic field illustrate the morphology and distribution of skin capillaries. A photomacrography system, consisting of a Topcon Super DM camera body, Model IV bellows, and a Macro Auto-Topcor lens, is useful. Simple oblique illumination by halogen bulbs avoids disturbing light reflections in the area of interest. Glass fibers direct light from a light source to the site of investigation. Modem computer technology allows one to digitize video pictures on- or off-line. Patients are examined either in supine or in a sitting position. A drop of oil renders the skin area of interest more transparent. Trophic skin changes seem to be caused mainly by cutaneous microangiopathy. Dilation of skin capillaries is found before trophic disorders have developed.
