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Stasis dermatitis and ulcers

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment
• Prevention

Definition:

Stasis dermatitis is a skin condition due to the build up of fluid (swelling) under the skin.

Alternative Names:

Venous stasis ulcers; Ulcers - venous

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The extra fluid that builds up in the body makes it hard for the blood to feed cells and get rid of waste products. The tissue becomes poorly nourished and fragile, resulting in stasis dermatitis. The disorder is common on the ankles because there is less supportive tissue in this area.

As the skin becomes thin and inflamed, open ulcers may form and heal slowly. The skin may darken, and later become thick, perhaps due to excessive scratching of the area.

Poor circulation in the veins (venous insufficiency) can lead to stasis dermatitis and ulcers (craters) in the skin. Varicose veins , congestive heart failure , and other conditions can cause the arms and legs to swell, especially the feet and ankles.

• Review Date: 10/16/2006
• Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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