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Telangiectasias (Spider Veins)

Telangiectasias (Spider Veins): Definition and Overview

What are Telangiectasias?

Telangiectasias (Spider Veins), are small, dilated blood vessels located near the surface of the skin or mucous membranes. They typically appear as fine, thread-like red, blue, or purple lines measuring about 0.5 to 1 millimeter in diameter.

Causes

• Sun Exposure and Photoaging: Chronic ultraviolet radiation damages blood vessels, making them dilate and more visible.
• Aging: With age, the skin thins and blood vessels lose elasticity, leading to telangiectasias.
• Genetics: Some individuals are prone to develop natural telangiectasias without underlying disease.
• Associated Conditions: Rosacea, scleroderma (CREST syndrome), lupus, dermatomyositis, and hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy or hormonal therapy can contribute to formation.
• Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids and some drugs can cause telangiectasias.
• Trauma or Skin Injury: Surgical incisions, acne, or physical trauma can induce localized telangiectasias.

Common Locations

• Face: Especially nose, cheeks, and chin
• Legs: Thighs, below knees, and ankles
• Other mucous membranes including eyes and oral cavity

Symptoms and Clinical Relevance

• Telangiectasias are usually asymptomatic and primarily a cosmetic concern.
• Some telangiectasias may bleed and require treatment.
• In systemic diseases like scleroderma, telangiectasias correlate with disease severity and other complications.

Treatment Options

• Laser Therapy: Pulsed dye laser or intense pulsed light to target dilated vessels.
• Sclerotherapy: Injectable agents cause blood vessels to collapse and fade, mainly for leg veins.
• Electrosurgery and Surgery: For resistant or large lesions.

Key Points

• Telangiectasias are small dilated superficial blood vessels often visible as red or blue lines.
• Sun damage, aging, genetics, and certain diseases predispose to their development.
• Treatment is primarily cosmetic but may include lasers or sclerotherapy.

Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!

For evaluation and treatment of telangiectasias, consult with our dermatology specialists and vascular specialists for tailored approaches ensuring safe and effective results.

References:

1. Sandean DP, Syed HA, Winters R. Spider Veins: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Clinical Presentation, and Management. StatPearls. 2024 Sep 18. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563218/​
2. Goldman MP. Telangiectasias: Pathogenesis and Management. Dermatol Surg. 2003 Jul;29(7):635-46. doi:10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29109.x. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29109.x
3. Kim J, Stocks R. Telangiectasia and Rosacea: New Insights into Pathophysiology and Management. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014 Jul;7(7):30-35. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4154677/