Phlebectasia I83.9

Authors: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer, Prof. Dr. med. Martina Bacharach-Buhles

All authors of this article

Last updated on: 13.10.2021

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Synonym(s)

veinctasia; venous lake

Definition
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Diffuse, uniform dilatation of a vein or venous complex, which may be round or cylindrical, tortuous or tendril-shaped or even star-shaped (spider veins).

Phlebectasia is to be distinguished from the terms varicose veins and varicosis.

Phlebectasia of the pampiniform plexus is called varicocele.

The sublingual venous systems, which often become more prominent and varicose with age (>60 years), are called "caviar tongue". They are completely harmless and do not indicate any underlying disease.

Phlebectasia of the lower lip is (wrongly) called "senile angioma" or lip margin angioma, although it is often only a conglomeration of capillary ectasias.

Vascular ectasias occurring at various other sites, especially in the facial region, are not prejudicially referred to as such or as "venous lakes".

Localization
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Lower lip (see also angioma, seniles of the lips), cheek mucosa, cheeks, lower leg.

Histology
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Thickening of the intima by fibroelastosis and hyperplasia of the media muscles.

Differential diagnosis
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Phlebectasia is to be distinguished from the terms varicose and varicosis as well as from telangiectasia.

Phlebectasia of the pampiniform plexus is called varicocele.

The sublingual venous systems, which often become more prominent and varicose with age (>60 years), are called "caviar tongue". They are completely harmless and do not indicate any underlying disease.

Phlebectasia of the lower lip is (wrongly) called"senile angioma" or lip margin angioma, although it is often only a conglomeration of capillary ectasias.

Vascular ectasias occurring at various other sites, especially in the facial region, are not prejudicially referred to as such or as "venous lakes".

Therapy
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In the lower lip area, if cosmetically disturbing, close excision or laser therapy. Phlebectasia in the area of venous insufficiency can be treated by foam sclerotherapy. See also chronic venous insufficiency. In other localizations, cosmetic aspects will be in the foreground with regard to the need for therapy.

Disclaimer

Please ask your physician for a reliable diagnosis. This website is only meant as a reference.