Stasis dermatitis and ulcers

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Dermatitis, stasis on the leg

Venous stasis ulcers; Ulcers - venous

The underlying condition and swelling must be controlled. This may include surgical correction of varicose veins, medications to control heart failure, or diuretics to remove excess fluid.

Circulation in the area may improve as swelling is reduced. This can be aided by raising the legs above the level of the heart until the swelling goes down. Gradually increasing gentle activity, such as walking, can improve circulation.

Elastic stockings may be recommended to improve venous blood return from the legs, which will reduce swelling.

Treatment of the skin may include wet dressings and topical antibiotics to control infection in open ulcers.

The skin area should be kept clean and observed for signs of infection (pain, redness, drainage that looks like pus).

Stasis dermatitis is often a chronic condition. Symptoms may be minimized if the underlying condition and swelling can be controlled.

• Secondary bacterial skin infections
• Permanent scar formation
• Chronic leg ulcers
• Infection of underlying bone

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if leg swelling or stasis dermatitis develops.

Review Date: 10/16/2006
Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.