Thrombophilia and chronic venous ulceration.
It is known that thrombophilia (TP) is a risk factor for deep venous thrombosis (DVT), and that DVT predisposes to chronic venous ulceration (CVU). However, the relationship between TP and CVU has not been well studied. Review of the literature reveals that the prevalence of TP in CVU patients is high--similar to the prevalence found in patients with a history of DVT. This is despite many patients with CVU having no clear history, or duplex evidence of previous DVT. TP may predispose to CVU by leading to macro- or micro-vascular thrombosis. This association raises several issues regarding the investigation, prevention and management of patients with venous disease.
Bradbury
A W
AW
University Department of Vascular Surgery, Lincoln House (Research Institute), Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, Bordesley Green East, Birmingham, B9 5SS, U.K.
MacKenzie
R K
RK
Burns
P
P
Fegan
C
C
D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D019851:Thrombophilia / Q000150:complications* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D014647:Varicose Ulcer / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology