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Stasis dermatitis and ulcers - Overview

Alternative Names

Venous stasis ulcers; Ulcers - venous; Venous ulcer

Definition of Stasis dermatitis and ulcers:

Stasis dermatitis is changes in the skin that occur when blood collects (pools) in the veins of the lower leg.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Venous insufficiency is a long-term (chronic) condition in which the veins have problems sending blood from the legs back to the heart.

Some people with venous insufficiency develop stasis dermatitis. Blood pools in the veins of the lower leg. Fluid and blood cells leak out of the veins into the skin and other tissues. This may lead to itching, which causes more skin changes.

  • Reviewed last on: 10/14/2010
  • Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Habif TP. Eczema and hand dermatitis. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 3.

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