Raynaud’s phenomenon and the nailfold capillaroscopic findings in a guitar player

Abstract

Learning points for clinicians • Musicians are affected by several well-recognized conditions, among which microvascular abnormalities are the less described and studied, although they can diminish their ability and performance quality. Capillaroscopy is a simple, non-invasive method to diagnose vascular abnormalities in musicians suffering from Raynaud’s phenomenon. The capillaroscopic pattern will be the base for the follow-up of the patient, and will indicate the possible need for further investigations aimed at excluding other occulted conditions. • This case emphasizes the fact that musicians whose hands are exposed to vibrations may suffer from microcirculation damage, for which reason they should be able to access an effective health surveillance program able to detect the first signs of hand–arm vibration syndrome.