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Livedoid Vasculopathy

Prothrombotic vascular disease with painful ulcers and atrophic white scars on the legs

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Livedoid Vasculopathy?

Livedoid vasculopathy is a prothrombotic vascular disease characterized by persistent painful ulcers on the distal legs and atrophie blanche (white star-shaped scars) on healing lesions due to microthrombosis of small vessels in the dermis.

The disease is not a vasculitis; instead of vessel wall inflammation, there are fibrin plugs and thrombosis. It shows association with thrombophilic states such as Factor V Leiden, Protein C/S deficiency, and elevated homocysteine.

Diagnosis is established by clinical and histopathology. Anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and new targeted therapies are used in treatment. Severe pain and chronic ulcers significantly reducing quality of life pose a major problem.

Symptoms

Recurrent painful small ulcers on the legs
Livedo reticularis around the ankle
White star-shaped scars on healing lesions
Pain increasing with walking
Characteristic smooth, white atrophy on lesions
Prolonged healing
Secondary bacterial infection

Risk Factors

Thrombophilia (Factor V Leiden, Protein C/S deficiency)
Hyperhomocysteinemia
Female sex
Venous insufficiency
Smoking
Autoimmune diseases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If you have recurrent painful small ulcers on the legs
  • If white scars form after ulcers heal
  • If existing venous ulcer treatment is not responsive
  • If severe pain disrupts your sleep pattern
  • If you have a history of thrombophilia

Treatment Methods

01
Antiplatelet drugs (aspirin, dipyridamole)
02
Anticoagulants (heparin, rivaroxaban)
03
Pentoxifylline and statins
04
Liposomal sildenafil, immunoglobulin (selected cases)
05
Topical wound care and compression
06
Thrombophilia screening and treatment of accompanying causes

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dermatoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.