Psoriasis and subdermal venous dilatations

Psoriasis in association with dilated veins (sub dermal) the legs. It is some times difficult to differentiate which clinical condition is the cause for the symptoms of the person. This is possible when psoriasis is seen along with the varicose veins. These patients complain of symptoms such as pain, discomfort, heaviness and difficulty in walking with skin lesions (dry, scaly) and few dilated veins in the legs. We have noted in our clinic especially in women who were treated for the skin disease (assumed as skin allergy), significant importance was given to the dilated veins by their family physicians and dermatologists. They were referred to the vascular surgical clinic with view to consider varicose veins surgery. In such patients a detailed examination for arthritis is necessary as this may be part of psoriasis (10-20% of patients). Counseling of the patients and their families about the psoriasis (skin disease) is important before any surgical therapies can be considered. A Dermatologist who can consider “ Foam- Sclerotherapy” along with skin therapies may be ideally suited for treating for such vein disorders in association with the skin diseases. But in India, very dermatologists in our city are considering foam Sclerotherapy for varicose veins in their clinics. Probably in future more number of dermatologists may consider foam Sclerotherapy in their practices.

Psoriasis (pronounced /səˈraɪəsɪs/) is a non-contagious disorder which affects the skin and joints. It commonly causes red scaly patches to appear on the skin. The scaly patches caused by psoriasis, called psoriatic plaques, are areas of inflammation and excessive skin production. Skin rapidly accumulates at these sites and takes on a silvery-white appearance. Plaques frequently occur on the skin of the elbows and knees, but can affect any area including the scalp and genitals. In contrast to eczema, psoriasis is more likely to be found on the extensor aspect of the joint

By

Pinjala RK