Stasis dermatitis

Alternative names:

leg ulcers

Definition:

Skin changes caused by fluid build-up under the skin.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Varicose veins, congestive heart failure, and other conditions can cause swelling of the extremities, especially the feet and ankles. This swelling (edema) is caused when plasma (the fluid portion of blood) leaks out of the blood vessels and into the tissues. This may be caused by an increase in fluid pressure in the blood vessels or by other causes. The excess fluid in the tissues interferes with the blood's ability to nourish the tissue cells and dispose of cellular waste products. The tissue becomes fragile, causing stasis dermatitis. The disorder is common on the ankles because there is less supportive tissue in this area.

The skin becomes thin, inflamed, and open ulcers may form and heal slowly. The skin may darken. The skin, initially thin, may later thicken, perhaps because of itching and scratching of the area.