Chronic venous disorders

Abstract

Chronic venous disorders encompass a spectrum of venous diseases, ranging from simple telangiectases (spider veins), reticular veins, varicose veins, and leg oedema to more severe advanced forms of disorders, including hyperpigmented skin changes, dermal sclerosis, and ulcer formation. Part of the spectrum of chronic venous disorders includes varicose veins, oedema, skin changes and ulcers affecting the lower limb, which are categorised as chronic venous disease (CVD). Chronic venous disorders with manifestations specific to abnormal venous function are grouped under the term chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). A distinguishing feature between CVD and CVI is that the latter indicates more advanced forms of chronic venous disorders. Accordingly, CVI includes manifestations such as skin pigmentation, venous eczema, lipodermatosclerosis, atrophie blanche, and healed or active ulcers.