Fig. 5

Typical nailfold capillaroscopy patterns in systemic sclerosis patients. Exemplary images of the three patterns of nailfold capillaroscopy as defined by Cutolo et al. [29]: the early pattern (upper image) is characterised by a normal capillary density and distribution with few ectasias and haemorrhages. The active pattern (middle image) is defined by giant capillaries, many haemorrhages and mild capillary loss and disorganisation. Irregular capillary width, avascular areas due to decreased capillary density as well as ramified or bushy capillaries, but less giant capillaries and haemorrhages constitute the late pattern (lower image)