Capillary fragility

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.

Alterations in capillary fragility (ACF) can be determined by different causes and be associated with many diseases; these can be congenital, alterations caused by drugs, microtraumas or other diseases such as collagen diseases.

Evaluation methods
Capillary fragility can typically be evaluated with the vacuum suction method (VSM) using Parrot's angiosterrometer.