These prominent serpiginous veins are called varicose veins. Most frequently this is a result of valvular dysfunction. Dysfunction leads to loss of compartmentalization of veins, leading to distention and increased pressure. Increased pressure in veins is transmitted to microvasculature leading to basement membrane thickening, increased capillary elongation, and visual skin changes. Longstanding disease can give rise to skin changes and ulcers. An effective noninvasive treatment is the use of compression stockings. Even after surgical intervention, new varicose veins may appear as the process is chronic. Surgical removal of all involved tissue using a CO2 laser, beyond clinically involved margins, is also an effective treatment modality.
Usatine RP, Smith MA, Chumley HS, Mayeaux EJ, Jr.. Chapter 224. Obesity. In: Usatine RP, Smith MA, Chumley HS, Mayeaux EJ, Jr.. eds. The Color Atlas of Family Medicine, 2e. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2013. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com.ezp-prod1.hul.harvard.edu/content.aspx?bookid=685&Sectionid=45361301. Accessed March 7, 2015.
These prominent serpiginous veins are called varicose veins. Most frequently this is a result of valvular dysfunction. Dysfunction leads to loss of compartmentalization of veins, leading to distention and increased pressure. Increased pressure in veins is transmitted to microvasculature leading to basement membrane thickening, increased capillary elongation, and visual skin changes. Longstanding disease can give rise to skin changes and ulcers. An effective noninvasive treatment is the use of compression stockings. Even after surgical intervention, new varicose veins may appear as the process is chronic. Surgical removal of all involved tissue using a CO2 laser, beyond clinically involved margins, is also an effective treatment modality.
ReplyDeleteUsatine RP, Smith MA, Chumley HS, Mayeaux EJ, Jr.. Chapter 224. Obesity. In: Usatine RP, Smith MA, Chumley HS, Mayeaux EJ, Jr.. eds. The Color Atlas of Family Medicine, 2e. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill; 2013. http://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com.ezp-prod1.hul.harvard.edu/content.aspx?bookid=685&Sectionid=45361301. Accessed March 7, 2015.