
Stasis Dermatitis and Ulcers
Stasis dermatitis is skin damage caused by leg vein disease. When blood pools in the veins of the lower leg, iron leaks out into the skin and surrounding tissue. At first, the skin may appear red, inflamed, and discolored. Over time, it may thicken and harden from scarring, develop a bumpy or cobblestone appearance, and turn a dark brown color. These changes can be permanent.When not treated properly, stasis dermatitis can lead to the development of sores called venous or stasis ulcers. These ulcers usually appear around the ankle. They are painful and can become infected. This can be severe enough to make the ulcer unable to heal.