[Hema 2 Lab] M2 - Capillary Fragility Test

Module 2Capillary Fragility Test

PREPARED BY:JEANNETTE SOCORRO B, CRUZ, RMT, MSMT

Play

Reference Material

CEU Laboratory Manual for Hematology 2

learning objectives

Lesson 1

Introduction to Capillary Fragility Test

What is the purpose of this device?

Capillary Fragility Test

- The Capillary Fragility Test also called the tourniquet test, Capillary Fragility test is a clinical diagnostic method used to assess the fragility of the capillary walls. - Capillary fragility is manifested by the appearance of extensive point hemorrhagic spots (petechiae, bruises and hematomas). This may occur especially on the face and legs. - The condition is determined by the tendency of the capillaries to spontaneously break, releasing the blood content in the surrounding area. - The capillary fragility test measures platelet’s ability to maintain capillary integrity. The degree of thrombocytopenia will correlate with the test, as with the bleeding time.

Review of Petechiae

- Capillary fragility can lead to bleeding or bruising due to ruptured blood vessels which manifests onto the skin surface - Petechiae - 1-2 mm in diameter and appears as tiny (can be pinpoint) red dots. - Smaller lesions. - Purpura - ≥ 3 mm in diameter seen in larger flat areas. - Ecchymosis - 1-2 cm in diameter and is usually a very large bruise.

Comparison

Tourniquet Test

PRINCIPLE

MATERIALS

PROCEDURE

REFERENCE RANGE

Suction Cup Test

PRINCIPLE

REFERENCE RANGE

Recap

• Capillary fragility test measures vascular or capillary integrity.
• Patients with capillary fragility will produce more than 10 petechiae in this test.
• WHO and CDC uses capillary fragility test for the new case definition of dengue.
• - Petechiae appears as pinpoint, or tiny red dots.

End of Lesson