Stasis Dermatitis
Alternate Names : Venous Stasis Dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis is a red itchy rash on the lower legs. It occurs after
long-term swelling of the lower leg, usually from poor blood circulation.
What is going on in the body?
Poor blood flow from the lower legs back to the heart causes swelling of the
lower legs. Over time, this creates poor circulation in the skin of the legs.
The skin begins to break into a rash, typically over the shins. It may
eventually become weeping sores.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Stasis dermatitis is usually caused by poor blood flow from the veins of the
legs back to the heart. It is seen most often in middle-aged people or people who are
elderly. The poor blood flow may be associated with the following
conditions:
varicose veins, which are bulging veins caused by damage to the
valves within the veins
blood clots in the veins of the lower legs or pelvis
congestive heart failure, a condition in which a
weakened heart is unable to pump blood effectively throughout the body
kidney failure
chronic leg swelling
The rash is often made worse by the use of salves or ointments. It may be
aggravated by infection with bacteria or fungus.
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