[Microcirculation in clinical practice].

Capillary microscopy at the nailfold, the calf, and the dorsum of the foot and toes, in connection with local cold exposure test and fluorescence microlymphography, are methods with clinical applicability. Investigations of the microcirculation have shown clinically relevant results on the following questions: Differential diagnosis of Raynaud's phenomenon, evaluation of follow-up and therapeutic effects. Prognosis and evaluation of therapy in severe occlusive disease of the peripheral arteries. Differential diagnosis of leg edema and classification of lymphedema. Microcirculatory methods represent a promising approach to the questions surrounding diabetic microangiopathy and disorders of capillary permeability.