Stasis dermatitis

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Stasis dermatitis refers to the skin changes that occur in the leg as a result of "stasis" or blood pooling from insufficient venous return, the common cause of this being from varicose veins leads to the alternative name of varicose eczema.

Insufficient venous return results in increased pressure in the capillaries with the result that both fluid and cells may "leak" out of the capillaries. This results in red cells breaking down with iron containing hemosiderin possibly contributing to the pathology of this entity.

In appearance the skin appears brown and may be weakened and ulcerate in areas.

The cracks and poor skin condition of this disorder predisposes for the entry of bacterial infection causing spreading cellulitis infection in the leg. If the skin condition deteriorates further and breaks down, a venous ulcer may form.

Treatment may consist of topical applications of steroid based creams and the use of compression stockings to help force the underlying buildup of fluids back out of the lower leg.