Classification of capillary damage in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Clinical parameters obtained through capillaroscopy—A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveDiabetes mellitus (DM) significantly affects microcirculation, leading to microvascular abnormalities that can result in severe systemic complications. Capillaroscopy is a non-invasive and painless method for observing capillary microvasculature, allowing for the assessment of microcirculatory damage. While it is known primarily for its application in rheumatic diseases, recent studies have emphasized its importance in non-rheumatic conditions, such as DM. This growing relevance has led to the aim of developing a classification system for capillary damage in diabetic patients.MethodsCross-sectional study. Eighty randomly selected patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were evaluated using capillaroscopy to assess capillary damage and establish a classification system.ResultsCapillary damage was observed in all participants (100%), with greater severity associated with longer diabetes duration. Patients were categorized based on the severity of their damage.ConclusionsThe classification system identified three degrees of capillary damage: an early grade, which can be subdivided into initial or established; an intermediate grade, which can also be initial or established (both treatable for potential reversibility); and an advanced grade, which appears to be irreversible. This classification aids in better understanding and managing microvascular damage in diabetic patients.