The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Stasis Dermatitis and Venous Ulcer

A skin disease secondary to chronic venous insufficiency presenting with redness, scaling, pigmentation and ulceration 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.

References (5)

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 Stasis Dermatitis and Venous Ulcer?

Stasis dermatitis (venous stasis dermatitis) is an inflammatory skin disease that develops as a result of chronic venous insufficiency, with increased venous pressure and disrupted capillary integrity in the legs. It particularly appears on the inner aspect of the lower leg.

The disease presents with erythema, itching, scaling, brown pigmentation due to hemosiderin deposition (pigmentary hyperpigmentation), and venous ulcer in advanced stages. Chronic complications such as lipodermatosclerosis and atrophie blanche may also develop.

Treatment includes compression therapy, correction of venous insufficiency, wound care and skin care. Superficial stasis dermatitis is often confused with cellulitis; correct distinction is important to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.

Symptoms

Edema in the lower leg and a feeling of heaviness worsening in the evening
Itchy redness around the medial malleolus
Brown pigmentation (hemosiderin)
Dry, scaly and fragile skin
Lipodermatosclerosis (induration, 'inverted champagne bottle' appearance)
Venous ulcer (on the inner aspect of the ankle)
Chronic scarring and atrophie blanche

Risk Factors

Chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins
History of deep vein thrombosis
Older age and female sex
Obesity and immobility
Long-standing occupations
Pregnancy and multiple deliveries
Congestive heart failure

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Persistent itching and pigmentation in the leg
  • An ankle ulcer that does not heal spontaneously
  • Sudden redness, pain and fever (differential from cellulitis)
  • Suspicion of deep vein thrombosis (sudden swelling, pain)
  • Symptoms worsening despite treatment

Treatment Methods

01
Compression therapy (compression stockings, bandages)
02
Laser, sclerotherapy or surgery for venous insufficiency
03
Intensive moisturization and topical corticosteroid (during flares)
04
Appropriate wound care and compression in venous ulcer
05
Weight loss, exercise and leg elevation
06
Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics (preventing misdiagnosis as cellulitis)

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.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Dermatoloji

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease commonly seen especially in children, flaring with genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.

Psoriasis

Dermatoloji

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which skin cells proliferate rapidly when the immune system mistakenly attacks the skin, leading to thick scaly lesions.

Acne

Dermatoloji

Acne is a skin disease resulting from clogging of hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells, commonly seen in adolescence but can occur at any age.

Rosacea

Dermatoloji

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory facial skin disease characterized by recurrent flushing, persistent erythema, telangiectasia, and inflammatory papules and pustules. Phymatous change and ocular involvement may complicate advanced disease.

Urticaria (Hives)

Dermatoloji

Urticaria is a skin condition with sudden pink-red wheals and intense itching that may follow an acute or chronic course.

Skin Fungal Infections

Dermatoloji

Skin fungal infections are common, contagious skin diseases caused by dermatophytes and yeast fungi colonizing the upper layers of the skin.

Hair Loss (Alopecia)

Dermatoloji

Alopecia is a general term for hair loss that can be genetic, hormonal, autoimmune, or nutritional; early intervention can slow progression.

Vitiligo

Dermatoloji

Vitiligo is an acquired autoimmune disease in which CD8+ T cells destroy melanocytes, producing well-demarcated depigmented patches. Early, sustained treatment can induce repigmentation and prevent progression; psychosocial impact warrants holistic care.

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.