Characteristics and Clinical Significance of Microcirculation in Populations Residing at Different Altitudes

Background: This study aimed to evaluate changes in microcirculation, physiological characteristics, and the pathomechanism of and potential treatment alternatives for severe septic shock among healthy individuals residing at different altitudes. Methods: : Seventy individuals, 35 from Xining and 35 from Nanjing, were recruited, and their body temperature, pulse, respiration, mean arterial pressure, peripheral blood oxygen saturation, and blood cell parameters were determined. Microcirculation indices of sublingual microcirculation were monitored using the sidestream dark field method. Results: : Erythrocyte counts and hemoglobin levels were significantly higher among individuals from Xining than among those from Nanjing ( P  < 0.05); however, platelet counts were significantly lower among those from Xining ( P  < 0.05). Microcirculation indices of total vessel density, perfused vessel density, and the proportion of perfused vessels were significantly higher among individuals from Xining than among those from Nanjing; however, the microvascular flow index was lower among those from Xining. Microvascular density was significantly higher among individuals from Xining than among those from Nanjing. Conclusion: Microvascular densit may be a physiological adaptation among populations at moderate-to-high altitudes.