Skip to main content

Lipodermatosclerosis

Home / Vein / Lipodermatosclerosis

What Symptoms are Associated with Lipodermatosclerosis?

Lipodermatosclerosis is a change in the skin of the lower legs. The disorder is a type of panniculitis, which is an inflammation of the fat layer under the skin. This condition affects people with a venous insufficiency. Symptoms of lipodermatosclerosis are:

  • Pain
  • Skin hardening
  • Redness of the skin
  • Swelling
  • The legs above the ankles taper
  • Small scarred areas that look white (atrophie blanche)
  • Leg sores or ulcers
patient free of varicose veins after treatment in Fairfax, Va

What Causes Lipodermatosclerosis?

What is known is that the disorder is in some way related to venous insufficiency and obesity. Approximately two thirds of affected people are obese.

At the root of this condition you will find:

  • Inadequately functioning venous valves
  • Obstruction or hindrance of the Venous outflow
  • Inhibited function of the muscle pump in the calves
Vein Doctor Tysons Corner

How is Lipodermatosclerosis Diagnosed?

The most common form of diagnosis comes from a skin biopsy and blood but are not required. Ultrasound scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to obtain more information regarding the severity of the condition to determine the best treatment approach.

Conservative Management

Usually, lipodermatosclerosis is treated by compression therapy. Other means of treating the symptoms of lipodermatosclerosis are:

  • Leg elevation
  • Not sitting or standing in the same place for long periods
  • Losing weight
  • Regular exercise
  • Compression therapy
  • Vein surgery

If you are suffering from a venous disorder or condition and need assistance, please reach out to the team at VeinGuard Heart & Vascular Center. We are dedicated to helping you get the treatment you need.

Close Menu
    BOOK ONLINE (703) 560-1075