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Venous Insufficiency (venous + insufficiency)
Kinds of Venous Insufficiency Selected AbstractsMicrocirculatory Dysfunction in Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)MICROCIRCULATION, Issue S1 2000MICHAEL JÜNGER ABSTRACT The elevated ambulatory pressure in the peripheral venous system of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) patients manifests itself not only in the form of disturbed macrocirculation but also and particularly in microangiopathic changes. For this reason, it is closely correlated with trophic disorders of the skin and can ultimately lead to ulceration. Using microcirculation research techniques, we are able to provide clear evidence of a typical microangiopathy in chronic venous insufficiency. Fifty CVI patients in Widmer stages I, II, and III were examined with fluorescence video microscopy, intravital video capillaroscopy, transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure measurement, TcpO2 and laser Doppler flowmetry. The effects of compression therapy with individually fitted compression stockings on capillary morphology were studied over a period of 4 weeks in 20 CVI patients in Widmer stages I and II. The capillary pressure was measured during simulated muscle contraction using a servo-null micropressure system. We periodically drew blood from the dorsalis pedis vein and a brachial vein of 11 healthy test persons and 8 patients with stage III CVI during experimental venous hypertension in order to evaluate the expression pattern of leukocyte adhesion molecules involved in inflammation: LFA-1 (CD11a), Mac-1 (CD11b), p150,95 (CD11c), CD18, VLA-4 (CD49d), and L-selectin (CD62L). In the same patients, we used immunohistochemical methods to examine clinically unaffected skin and the skin near an ulcer, focusing on the adhesion molecules ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin. The microangiopathic changes observed with worsening clinical symptoms include a decrease in the number of capillaries, glomerulus-like changes in capillary morphology, a drop in the oxygen content (tcpO2) of the skin, increased permeability of the capillaries to low-molecular-weight substances, increased laser Doppler flux reflecting elevated subcutaneous flow, and diminished vascular reserve. These microangiopathic changes worsen in linear proportion to the clinical severity of chronic venous insufficiency. In patients with venous ulcerations, the baseline expression of LFA-1 and VLA-4 on lymphocytes, Mac-1 expression on the myeloid cell line, and L-selectin expression on all three cell lines was not significantly different from that in healthy controls. During orthostatic stress, there was a significant reduction in the expression of L-selectin in blood cells collected at foot level in the controls (p = 0.002), but not in the patients. Clinical improvement by compression therapy was accompanied by an increase in the number of nutritive capillaries, while the diameter of the capillaries and the dermal papillae was reduced. When ulcers healed in a short period (<6 weeks), we observed a concomitant increase in the number of capillaries (p < 0.05). Microangiopathy appears before trophic disorders of the skin develop. Even trophically normal skin areas may have dilated nutritive capillaries, an early sign of disturbed skin perfusion. These changes represent a plausible explanation for the development and to recurrency tendency of venous ulcers. The reduced expression of lymphocytic L-selectin in healthy controls during the orthostatic stress test may be an indication that the cells are activated by venous stasis. Clinically effective therapeutic measures improve the impaired microcirculation of the skin in the ankle area. [source] Experimental Models To Investigate Inflammatory Processes in Chronic Venous InsufficiencyMICROCIRCULATION, Issue S1 2000RONALD J. KORTHUIS ABSTRACT Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is characterized by leukocyte adhesion and infiltration, venous hypertension and dilatation, and valvular dysfunction. The fact that activated white cells can direct a powerful cytotoxic arsenal at parenchymal cells following their extravasation into the tissues led to the original proposal that leukocytes may play a causative role in the pathogenesis of venous disease. A large body of subsequent work indicates that white blood cells are indeed activated in CVI. However, identification of the factors responsible for initiating leukosequestration and activation in such disorders and determination of whether these activated cells then contribute to the progression of venous disease have been hampered by the lack of appropriate animal models that accurately mimic the human condition. Tantalizing evidence suggesting that cyclical periods of ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) may occur in diseased regions of the skin is beginning to accumulate. As is the case with CVI, leukocyte infiltration is a prominent feature in I/R and activated neutrophils play a causative role in the reperfusion component of tissue injury via the targeted release of reactive oxygen metabolites and hydrolytic enzymes. In light of these considerations, many investigators have suggested that examining the mechanisms of I/R injury in skin and skeletal muscle, where ischemia is produced by arterial occlusion, may provide a relevant model for studying the pathogenesis of CVI. Others have suggested that venous occlusion may represent a more appropriate model, as this approach also produces the venous hypertension that is characteristic of the disease. The purpose of this review is to summarize the evidence pointing to the involvement of I/R and venous hypertension as causative factors in CVI-induced leukocyte recruitment. In addition, we will describe the evidence in favor of the view that white blood cells contribute to the pathogenesis of CVI. Finally, we will describe several different experimental models that have been used to examine the role of I/R-induced microvascular dysfunction as it may pertain to the development of CVI, together with a discussion of the relative advantages and limitations of the various models. [source] A prospective observational study of a cohort of outpatients with an acute medical event and reduced mobility: incidence of symptomatic thromboembolism and description of thromboprophylaxis practicesJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 2 2006J.-L. BOSSON Abstract. Objectives., The study was performed to determine the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism in outpatients with an acute medical event causing temporary reduced mobility. Risk factors for venous thromboembolism and thromboprophylaxis practices were also studied. Design., This was a prospective, observational, multicentre, cohort study. Setting., General practitioners randomly selected from a registry of 25 000 active representative doctors in France included eligible outpatients Subjects., Outpatients aged at least 40 years anticipated to have reduced mobility for at least 48 h due to an acute medical event were eligible. Interventions., None required. Main outcome measures., Symptomatic deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism at 3 weeks were the main study end-points. Results., Overall, 16 532 evaluable patients of mean age 71 years were recruited between October 2002 and June 2003 by 2895 doctors. The main acute medical events leading to reduced mobility were infection, acute rheumatism and falls without fracture. The incidence rates (95% confidence interval) of symptomatic deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism were 1% (0.84,1.14) and 0.20% (0.13,0.27) respectively. Venous insufficiency in legs, cancer, and a personal or family history of venous thromboembolism were independent risk factors for venous thromboembolism. Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis was initiated in 35.0% (n = 5782) of the patients. The principal driver of prescription was a personal history of venous thromboembolism. Conclusions., The risk of symptomatic venous thromboembolism in outpatients with reduced mobility for medical reasons is close to that reported in medical and surgical inpatients. This risk and the potential need for thromboprophylaxis should be taken into account by primary care doctors. [source] Nonvisible Insufficient Subcutaneous Reticular Venous Plexus Can Be Observed through the Skin Using a New Illumination MethodDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2010LUIS LOPEZ BUSTOS MD BACKGROUND Insufficient subcutaneous reticular venous plexus (ISRVP) is an overlooked disease because the human eye cannot see many of the insufficient veins. OBJECTIVE To present a total reticular vision (TRV) method that exposes nonvisible ISRVP to normal vision. METHOD & MATERIALS TRV used visual-spectrum white and red light of 700 nm and infrared light of 15 to 850 nm from an ultradigital viewer camera. We studied 124 asymptomatic subjects from the general population without visible ISRVP. Another six patients with ISRVP without other venous pathology were compared with six healthy controls, Very low pressure was applied to the proximal thigh, and minimal volume increments on the medial malleolus were photoplethysmographically registered to validate subcutaneous venous reflux. RESULTS Total reticular vision exposed ISRVP on the lower extremities in 72 of 124 subjects (58%), with observed damaged veins corresponding to more than 90% of nonvisible and 5% of visible portions of ISRVP. Subcutaneous reflux was registered only in patients with ISRVP. CONCLUSION Total reticular vision exposed more than 90% of nonvisible ISRVP, a new pathology, allowing for the study of its relationship with other superficial venous insufficiencies. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. [source] Immediate Pathologic Effects on the Vein Wall of Foam SclerotherapyDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 10 2007CAMILLO ORSINI MD BACKGROUND During the past 10 years, sclerotherapy has radically changed, the foam sclerotherapy method being better than that of liquid sclerotherapy. OBJECTIVES We have analyzed the immediate pathologic effects on the saphenous vein wall in vivo after sclerotherapy with sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STD) foam. METHODS A group of six patients affected by chronic venous insufficiency, operated on by stripping of the saphenous vein, underwent an intraoperative procedure of sclerotherapy to an isolated but not yet removed tract of saphenous vein with 3% STD foam. RESULTS The pathologic damage of the foam was extremely rapid with complete damage of the endothelium within the first 2 minutes. In the successive 15 and 30 minutes there was edema of the intimal with its progressive separation from the tunica media and the initial formation and adhesion of the thrombus to the tunica media. CONCLUSIONS In this in vivo report we analyze the capacity of 3% STD foam sclerotherapy to damage the saphenous vein wall. The damage is extremely fast and shows the detachment of the intimal and the development of the microthrombus. [source] Spa treatment might improve chronic venous insufficiencyFOCUS ON ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH, Issue 2 2009Article first published online: 3 JUN 2010 [source] Aesculus hippocastanum for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency , an open studyFOCUS ON ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH, Issue 1 2003S Dickson [source] Complementary therapies for chronic venous insufficiencyFOCUS ON ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH, Issue 1 2001Max H Pittler MD [source] Encouraging findings for French maritime pine bark extract in chronic venous insufficiencyFOCUS ON ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH, Issue 1 2001Article first published online: 14 JUN 2010 [source] Butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus): an efficacious treatment for chronic venous insufficiency?FOCUS ON ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH, Issue 1 2000Article first published online: 14 JUN 2010 [source] Novel missense mutations in the FOXC2 gene alter transcriptional activity,HUMAN MUTATION, Issue 12 2009M.A.M. van Steensel Abstract Mutations in the FOXC2 gene that codes for a forkhead transcription factor are associated with primary lymphedema that usually develops around puberty. Associated abnormalities include distichiasis and, very frequently, superficial and deep venous insufficiency. Most mutations reported so far either truncate the protein or are missense mutations in the forkhead domain causing a loss of function. The haplo-insufficient state is associated with lymphatic hyperplasia in mice as well as in humans. We analyzed the FOXC2 gene in 288 patients with primary lymphedema and found 11 pathogenic mutations, of which 9 are novel. Of those, 5 were novel missense mutations of which 4 were located outside of the forkhead domain. To examine their pathogenic potential we performed a transactivation assay using a luciferase reporter construct driven by FOXC1 response elements. We found that the mutations outside the forkhead domain cause a gain of function as measured by luciferase activity. Patient characteristics conform to previous reports with the exception of distichiasis, which was found in only 2 patients out of 11. FOXC2 mutations causing lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome reported thus far result in haplo-insufficiency and lead to lymphatic hyperplasia. Our results suggest that gain-of-function mutations may also cause lymphedema. One would expect that in this case, lymphatic hypoplasia would be the underlying abnormality. Patients with activating mutations might present with Meige disease. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Endovenous laser ablation for superficial venous insufficiencyINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 1 2010R. Durai Summary Background:, Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a new minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgery for superficial venous insufficiency and varicose veins, where laser energy is used to ablate the incompetent veins. Discussion:, Endovenous laser ablation avoids the need for surgical incisions, and the complications of surgical exploration of the groin or popliteal fossa, and stripping. The procedure is commonly performed under local anaesthesia, with immediate mobilisation and rapid return to normal activity. Severe varicosity of tributaries may require adjunctive procedures such as microphlebectomy or sclerotherapy. Conclusion:, Early outcomes and cosmesis are superior, and long-term data is accumulating that recurrence of EVLA rates may be lower. [source] Orthogonal polarization technique in the assessment of human skin microcirculationINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2008Omar Lupi MD Background The "gold standard" for the study of the in vivo microcirculation is intravital microscopy. The recently developed method of orthogonal polarization of light [orthogonal polarization spectral (OPS) imaging] allows for the in vivo transcutaneous evaluation of the microcirculation without the need for invasive surgical procedures. Methods The application of polarized light originating from a 100 W halogen tungsten lamp is able to penetrate tissues at a depth of up to 3 mm, and generates reissued light from this depth. The evaluation of this depolarized light, from a deeper origin, may be carried out separately from the light reflected by the more superficial layers of the tissue under study because this light retains photon polarization, whereas the former light undergoes real depolarization. Results The process of validation of the OPS technique, when compared with intravital microscopy, the "gold standard" for the in vivo observation of the microcirculation, has shown that it is as effective and reliable as the gold standard, reaching the same resolution level in the visualization of blood vessels, but without the need for invasive surgical procedures. Conclusions The OPS technique is a very promising tool for dermatologists and researchers, especially in the study of vasculitis, chronic venous insufficiency, and skin tumors. [source] Six-month mortality risks in long-term care residents with chronic ulcersINTERNATIONAL WOUND JOURNAL, Issue 5 2008Paul Y Takahashi Abstract Chronic ulcers are a common problem in long-term care. Residents with ongoing ulcers are often frail and at risk for mortality. This study evaluated the relationship between wound characteristics and other health predictors with 6-month mortality in nursing home residents. The subjects included were nursing home residents seen by the wound consult service from 1998 to 2007 with an ongoing chronic ulcer. This was a retrospective cohort study. Data were manually and electronically abstracted for each resident. Six-month mortality was collected as the primary outcome. Statistical comparisons were made using logistic regression with a final multivariant model. Four hundred and forty residents were seen with 411 records reviewed. Ulcer area was not associated with mortality; however, chronic ulcer number was associated with 6-month mortality with an odds ratio of 1·32 (95% CI 1·07,1·63). Other significant risk factors included heart failure, dementia, cancer, depression and blindness with all factors having an odds ratio greater than 1·75. Higher haemoglobin and venous insufficiency were protective of 6-month mortality. Ulcer number is an important predictor for 6-month mortality. The presence of multiple ulcers and comorbid health concerns may influence discussion of prognosis for healing and for potential end of life discussions. [source] Low level laser therapy for healing acute and chronic wounds , the extendicare experienceINTERNATIONAL WOUND JOURNAL, Issue 2 2008Anita E Saltmarche Abstract The purpose of the study is to assess the effectiveness of low level laser therapy for wound healing when combined with the Extendicare Wound Prevention and Management Program. Sixteen residents at a Canadian Extendicare nursing home had a total of 27 sites treated consisting of 23 open wounds and 4 ,at risk' areas. Of the 23 open wounds, two wounds in between toes were not able to be ,traced' and deemed ,immeasurable' wounds, resulting in 21 open, measured wounds. The four ,at risk' (closed) areas were treated preventatively. Pressure, venous insufficiency and diabetic wounds were included. The majority (12/21) or 57·1%, of the wounds were chronic (,3 months duration) and 42·9% were acute (<3 months duration). The primary outcome measures included the PUSH Tool score, EZ GraphTM tracings and photographs. Secondary outcome measures were employed to better understand potential barriers to successful integration into clinical practice. Feedback on the effectiveness of low level laser therapy, the education program and determinations of hands-on relevance was sought from staff. At the end of the 9-week trial, the majority (61·9%) of the 21 wounds achieved significant improvement (,50% wound closure). Nine (42·8%) had 100% closure. Some improvement was seen in 14·3% and 23·8% of wounds demonstrated no change. Chronic and acute wounds had similar improvement. None of the wounds in this debilitated, frail population deteriorated during the study and no negative consequences of treatment were encountered. Without staff support, even if new technology has positive clinical outcomes, success would be limited. Staff rated low level laser, easy to learn and use, effective for the majority of their residents worth the additional time. Staff requested a continuation of low level laser even after study completion. [source] Changes in quality of life for patients with chronic venous insufficiency, present or healed leg ulcersJOURNAL DER DEUTSCHEN DERMATOLOGISCHEN GESELLSCHAFT, Issue 11 2009Regina Renner Summary Background: Patients with chronic leg ulcers are handicapped in daily life, both by physical complaints and social problems. The aim of our study was not only to assess a possible impairment of quality of life (QOL) of leg ulcer patients but also to evaluate if there is a real improvement of QOL after healing of the ulcer. Patients with chronic venous insufficiency served as the control group. We further analyzed if there were significant differences in the response between patients who were and were not performing compression therapy. Patients and method: We interviewed three groups of patients (active venous leg ulcer, healed venous leg ulcer and patients with chronic venous insufficiency using the ,Freiburger Life Quality Assessment für Venenerkrankungen" (FLQAv). Results: Physical problems, daily handicaps and social problems all increased with age. Contrary to our expectations, healing of a leg ulcer did not lead to a significant increase in QOL. Instead, patients with active ulcers did not regard their QOL as lower than those in the other groups. Compression therapy also did not impair QOL in the three groups. Conclusion: Even though ulcer healing is an admirable goal, it does not necessarily lead to an improved QOL, probably because of the numerous comorbidi-ties in this patient group. Nonetheless, it is important to control problems associated directly with the wound to allow ulcer patients to participate actively in everyday life and minimize social problems. [source] Toenail abnormalities and onychomycosis in chronic venous insufficiency of the legs: should we treat?JOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY & VENEREOLOGY, Issue 3 2008A Shemer Abstract Background Toenail manifestations of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) may often mimic the nail changes of onychomycosis. The current study aims to determine the frequency of toenails deformations in patients with CVI, onychomycosis prevalence among deformed toenails and the outcome of itraconazole treatment. Methods Patients with clinical evidence of (CVI) were enrolled. All patients with toenails deformations and proven onychomycosis were treated by itraconazole pulse therapy for 4 months and then followed-up for additional 5 to 6 months. Results Forty-four patients with CVI entered the study. Thirty-seven patients (84%) had nail deformations; 28 of 37 patients (75%) had onychomycosis; and 24 patients completed the follow-up period. Total cure was achieved in 6 of 24 patients (25%), and 14 patients (58%) had no improvement. Patients' age and CVI duration were significantly correlated to onychomycosis cure rate. Conclusions Nail deformations are more prevalent in CVI patients (84%) then in the general elderly population, and 75% of affected nails had also onychomycosis. In these patients, itraconazole achieved only 25% total cure rate compared with the 60% to 70% cure rate commonly cited in the literature, probably due to irreversible nail deformity caused by the CVI and due to the thickened nail that prevented penetrance of itraconazole into the nail plate. Therefore, before antifungal treatment is started for onychomycosis in patients with CVI, especially in older patients, the caregiver must stress out that the final outcome might not be as desirable as in pure onychomycosis patients. [source] Post-thrombotic syndrome, recurrence, and death 10 years after the first episode of venous thromboembolism treated with warfarin for 6 weeks or 6 monthsJOURNAL OF THROMBOSIS AND HAEMOSTASIS, Issue 4 2006S. SCHULMAN Summary.,Background: The influence of the duration of anticoagulant therapy after venous thromboembolism (VTE) on the long-term morbidity and mortality is unclear. Aim: To investigate the long-term sequelae of VTE in patients randomized to different duration of secondary prophylaxis. Methods: In a multicenter trial comparing secondary prophylaxis with vitamin K antagonists for 6 weeks or 6 months, we extended the originally planned 2 years follow-up to 10 years. The patients had annual visits and at the last visit clinical assessment of the post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) was performed. Recurrent thromboembolism was adjudicated by a radiologist, blinded to treatment allocation. Causes of death were obtained from the Swedish Death Registry. Results: Of the 897 patients randomized, 545 could be evaluated at the 10 years follow-up. The probability of developing severe PTS was 6% and any sign of PTS was seen in 56.3% of the evaluated patients. In multivariate analysis, old age and signs of impaired circulation at discharge from the hospital were independent risk factors at baseline for development of PTS after 10 years. Recurrent thromboembolism occurred in 29.1% of the patients with a higher rate among males, older patients, those with permanent triggering risk factor , especially with venous insufficiency at baseline , signs of impaired venous circulation at discharge, proximal deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism. Death occurred in 28.5%, which was a higher mortality than expected with a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of 1.43 (95% CI 1.28,1.58), mainly because of a higher mortality than expected from cancer (SIR 1.83; 95% CI 1.44,2.23) or from myocardial infarction or stroke (SIR 1.28; 95% CI 1.00,1.56). The duration of anticoagulation did not have a statistically significant effect on any of the long-term outcomes. Conclusion: The morbidity and mortality during 10 years after the first episode of VTE is high and not reduced by extension of secondary prophylaxis from 6 weeks to 6 months. A strategy to reduce recurrence of VTE as well as mortality from arterial disease is needed. [source] The utility of quantitative calf muscle near-infrared spectroscopy in the follow-up of acute deep vein thrombosisJOURNAL OF THROMBOSIS AND HAEMOSTASIS, Issue 4 2006T. YAMAKI Summary.,Background:,To investigate patterns of venous insufficiency and changes in calf muscle deoxygenated hemoglobin (HHb) levels after an acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Methods:,A total of 78 limbs with an acute DVT involving 156 anatomic segments were evaluated with duplex scanning and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. Venous segments were examined whether they were occluded, partially recanalized, and totally recanalized, and the development of venous reflux was noted. The NIRS was used to measure calf muscle HHb levels. Calf venous blood filling index (HHbFI) was calculated on standing, then the calf venous ejection index (HHbEI), and the venous retention index (HHbRI) were obtained after exercise. Results:,The segments investigated were the common femoral vein (CFV; 38 segments), femoral vein (FV; 37), popliteal vein (POPV; 44), and calf veins (CV; 37). At 1 year, thrombi had fully resolved in 67% of the segments, 27% remained partially recanalized, 6% were occluded. The venous occlusion was predominant in the FV (24%) at 1 year. On the contrary, rapid recanalization was obtained in CV than proximal veins at each examination (P < 0.01). Venous reflux was predominant in POPV (55%), followed by FV (19%), and no reflux was found in CV. At 1 year, the HHbFI in POPV reflux patients was significantly higher than those with resolution (0.19 ± 0.14, 0.11 ± 0.05 ,m s, P = 0.009, respectively). Similarly, there was a significant difference in the HHbRI between the two groups (3.08 ± 1.91, 1.42 ± 1.56, P = 0.002, respectively). In patients with FV occlusion, the value of HHbRI was significantly higher than those with complete resolution (2.59 ± 1.50, 1.42 ± 1.56, P = 0.011, respectively). Conclusions:,The lower extremity venous segments show different proportions of occlusion, partial recanalization, and total recanalization. The CV shows more rapid recanalization than proximal veins. The NIRS-derived HHbFI and HHbRI could be promising parameters as the overall venous function in the follow-up of acute DVT. These findings might be very helpful for physician in detecting patients who require much longer follow-up studies. [source] Microcirculatory Dysfunction in Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)MICROCIRCULATION, Issue S1 2000MICHAEL JÜNGER ABSTRACT The elevated ambulatory pressure in the peripheral venous system of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) patients manifests itself not only in the form of disturbed macrocirculation but also and particularly in microangiopathic changes. For this reason, it is closely correlated with trophic disorders of the skin and can ultimately lead to ulceration. Using microcirculation research techniques, we are able to provide clear evidence of a typical microangiopathy in chronic venous insufficiency. Fifty CVI patients in Widmer stages I, II, and III were examined with fluorescence video microscopy, intravital video capillaroscopy, transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure measurement, TcpO2 and laser Doppler flowmetry. The effects of compression therapy with individually fitted compression stockings on capillary morphology were studied over a period of 4 weeks in 20 CVI patients in Widmer stages I and II. The capillary pressure was measured during simulated muscle contraction using a servo-null micropressure system. We periodically drew blood from the dorsalis pedis vein and a brachial vein of 11 healthy test persons and 8 patients with stage III CVI during experimental venous hypertension in order to evaluate the expression pattern of leukocyte adhesion molecules involved in inflammation: LFA-1 (CD11a), Mac-1 (CD11b), p150,95 (CD11c), CD18, VLA-4 (CD49d), and L-selectin (CD62L). In the same patients, we used immunohistochemical methods to examine clinically unaffected skin and the skin near an ulcer, focusing on the adhesion molecules ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin. The microangiopathic changes observed with worsening clinical symptoms include a decrease in the number of capillaries, glomerulus-like changes in capillary morphology, a drop in the oxygen content (tcpO2) of the skin, increased permeability of the capillaries to low-molecular-weight substances, increased laser Doppler flux reflecting elevated subcutaneous flow, and diminished vascular reserve. These microangiopathic changes worsen in linear proportion to the clinical severity of chronic venous insufficiency. In patients with venous ulcerations, the baseline expression of LFA-1 and VLA-4 on lymphocytes, Mac-1 expression on the myeloid cell line, and L-selectin expression on all three cell lines was not significantly different from that in healthy controls. During orthostatic stress, there was a significant reduction in the expression of L-selectin in blood cells collected at foot level in the controls (p = 0.002), but not in the patients. Clinical improvement by compression therapy was accompanied by an increase in the number of nutritive capillaries, while the diameter of the capillaries and the dermal papillae was reduced. When ulcers healed in a short period (<6 weeks), we observed a concomitant increase in the number of capillaries (p < 0.05). Microangiopathy appears before trophic disorders of the skin develop. Even trophically normal skin areas may have dilated nutritive capillaries, an early sign of disturbed skin perfusion. These changes represent a plausible explanation for the development and to recurrency tendency of venous ulcers. The reduced expression of lymphocytic L-selectin in healthy controls during the orthostatic stress test may be an indication that the cells are activated by venous stasis. Clinically effective therapeutic measures improve the impaired microcirculation of the skin in the ankle area. [source] Experimental Models To Investigate Inflammatory Processes in Chronic Venous InsufficiencyMICROCIRCULATION, Issue S1 2000RONALD J. KORTHUIS ABSTRACT Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is characterized by leukocyte adhesion and infiltration, venous hypertension and dilatation, and valvular dysfunction. The fact that activated white cells can direct a powerful cytotoxic arsenal at parenchymal cells following their extravasation into the tissues led to the original proposal that leukocytes may play a causative role in the pathogenesis of venous disease. A large body of subsequent work indicates that white blood cells are indeed activated in CVI. However, identification of the factors responsible for initiating leukosequestration and activation in such disorders and determination of whether these activated cells then contribute to the progression of venous disease have been hampered by the lack of appropriate animal models that accurately mimic the human condition. Tantalizing evidence suggesting that cyclical periods of ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) may occur in diseased regions of the skin is beginning to accumulate. As is the case with CVI, leukocyte infiltration is a prominent feature in I/R and activated neutrophils play a causative role in the reperfusion component of tissue injury via the targeted release of reactive oxygen metabolites and hydrolytic enzymes. In light of these considerations, many investigators have suggested that examining the mechanisms of I/R injury in skin and skeletal muscle, where ischemia is produced by arterial occlusion, may provide a relevant model for studying the pathogenesis of CVI. Others have suggested that venous occlusion may represent a more appropriate model, as this approach also produces the venous hypertension that is characteristic of the disease. The purpose of this review is to summarize the evidence pointing to the involvement of I/R and venous hypertension as causative factors in CVI-induced leukocyte recruitment. In addition, we will describe the evidence in favor of the view that white blood cells contribute to the pathogenesis of CVI. Finally, we will describe several different experimental models that have been used to examine the role of I/R-induced microvascular dysfunction as it may pertain to the development of CVI, together with a discussion of the relative advantages and limitations of the various models. [source] Fear-avoidance beliefs and pain as predictors for low physical activity in patients with leg ulcerPHYSIOTHERAPY RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL, Issue 3 2009Kirsti Skavberg Roaldsen Abstract Background and Purpose.,Previous studies have shown that patients with chronic venous insufficiency are deconditioned and physically inactive. The present study aimed to examine the occurrence of fear-avoidance beliefs in patients with chronic venous insufficiency, and to investigate the role of fear-avoidance beliefs and pain severity in predicting the low level of physical activity in these patients.,Method.,Data were collected by a postal questionnaire sent to 146 patients with chronic venous insufficiency and current or previous venous leg ulcer. Complete data were collected from 98 patients aged 60,85 years , 63% women , giving a response rate of 67%. Fear-avoidance beliefs were assessed by the Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire, physical activity subscale. Pain and physical activity were assessed by the Six-point Verbal Rating Scale of Pain Assessment and the Physical Activity Questionnaire, respectively.,Results.,Fear-avoidance beliefs were present in 81 (83%) of the patients with chronic venous insufficiency (range 0,24, median 12). Forty patients (41%) had strong fear-avoidance beliefs. One-third of the patients with healed ulcers had strong fear-avoidance beliefs. Patients with low physical activity had significantly stronger fear-avoidance beliefs and more severe pain than patients with high physical activity. Multiple logistic regression showed that the odds ratio (OR) for low physical activity were about three times higher for patients with strong fear-avoidance beliefs (OR 3.1, 95% confidence interval 1.1,8.3; p = 0.027) than for patients with weak fear-avoidance beliefs.,Conclusions.,Fear-avoidance beliefs were present in most patients with chronic venous insufficiency and were associated with low physical activity. Clinical implications ought to include a better recognition of fear-avoidance beliefs, early information about the negative consequences of such beliefs, and the importance of physical activity to counteract poor mobility. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] No cerebrocervical venous congestion in patients with multiple sclerosis,ANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 2 2010Florian Doepp MD Objective: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by demyelination centered around cerebral veins. Recent studies suggested this topographic pattern may be caused by venous congestion, a condition termed chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI). Published sonographic criteria of CCSVI include reflux in the deep cerebral veins and/or the internal jugular and vertebral veins (IJVs and VVs), stenosis of the IJVs, missing flow in IJVs and VVs, and inverse postural response of the cerebral venous drainage. Methods: We performed an extended extra- and transcranial color-coded sonography study including analysis of extracranial venous blood volume flow (BVF), cross-sectional areas, IJV flow analysis during Valsalva maneuver (VM), and CCSVI criteria. Fifty-six MS patients and 20 controls were studied. Results: Except for 1 patient, blood flow direction in the IJVs and VVs was normal in all subjects. In none of the subjects was IJV stenosis detected. IJV and VV BVF in both groups was equal in the supine body position. The decrease of total jugular BVF on turning into the upright position was less pronounced in patients (173 ± 235 vs 362 ± 150ml/min, p < 0.001), leading to higher BVF in the latter position (318ml/min ± 242 vs 123 ± 109ml/min; p < 0.001). No differences between groups were seen in intracranial veins and during VM. None of the subjects investigated in this study fulfilled >1 criterion for CCSVI. Interpretation: Our results challenge the hypothesis that cerebral venous congestion plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of MS. Future studies should elucidate the difference between patients and healthy subjects in BVF regulation. ANN NEUROL 2010;68:173,183 [source] Venous and cerebrospinal fluid flow in multiple sclerosis: A case-control studyANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 2 2010Peter Sundström MD The prevailing view on multiple sclerosis etiopathogenesis has been challenged by the suggested new entity chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency. To test this hypothesis, we studied 21 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis cases and 20 healthy controls with phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, in multiple sclerosis cases we performed contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography. We found no differences regarding internal jugular venous outflow, aqueductal cerebrospinal fluid flow, or the presence of internal jugular blood reflux. Three of 21 cases had internal jugular vein stenoses. In conclusion, we found no evidence confirming the suggested vascular multiple sclerosis hypothesis. ANN NEUROL 2010;68:255,259 [source] Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency and multiple sclerosisANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 2 2010Adam E. Handel BA, BMBCh No abstract is available for this article. [source] Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency and multiple sclerosisANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 3 2010Omar Khan MD A chronic state of impaired venous drainage from the central nervous system, termed chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI), is claimed to be a pathologic phenomenon exclusively seen in multiple sclerosis (MS). This has invigorated the causal debate of MS and generated immense interest in the patient and scientific communities. A potential shift in the treatment paradigm of MS involving endovascular balloon angioplasty or venous stent placement has been proposed as well as conducted in small patient series. In some cases, it may have resulted in serious injury. In this Point of View, we discuss the recent investigations that led to the description of CCSVI as well as the conceptual and technical shortcomings that challenge the potential relationship of this phenomenon to MS. The need for conducting carefully designed and rigorously controlled studies to investigate CCVSI has been recognized by the scientific bodies engaged in MS research. Several scientific endeavors examining the presence of CCSVI in MS are being undertaken. At present, invasive and potentially dangerous endovascular procedures as therapy for patients with MS should be discouraged until such studies have been completed, analyzed, and debated in the scientific arena. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:286,290 [source] Noninvasive bioengineering assessment of the skin barrier function in patients with chronic venous insufficiencyBRITISH JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2010I. Angelova-Fischer Summary Background Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) comprises all symptoms caused by permanent venous and capillary hypertension. While the clinical manifestations of the disease have been well characterized, there is little knowledge on the skin barrier function in the affected patients. Objectives The aim of the study was to assess noninvasively the barrier function in patients with CVI stage C2 and stage C4 according to the CEAP classification in comparison with healthy controls (stage C0). Methods Thirty patients with CVI without concomitant diseases and 15 healthy, aged-matched controls were recruited for the study. The skin barrier function was assessed by measuring transepidermal water loss (TEWL), capacitance and skin colour symmetrically on the calf, medial and lateral malleolus, posterior arch (arcus venosus) and volar forearm. Results Compared with the forearm, there was a tendency for increased TEWL and significant reduction of capacitance on all measurement sites on the lower limb. Compared with the control group, the patients with CVI had significantly higher TEWL values on all measurement sites on the lower extremities while no difference in capacitance between patients and controls was observed. Conclusions Changes in the epidermal barrier function in patients with CVI are readily detectable by bioengineering methods as early as stage C2 and are manifested by significantly increased TEWL. Our results suggest that the reduced stratum corneum hydration in patients with CVI is due to anatomical differences rather than venous disease. These findings may help better understand the factors contributing to disease progression and its complications. [source] Procollagen type I gene expression and cell proliferation are increased in lipodermatosclerosisBRITISH JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 2 2005A.M. DeGiorgio-Miller Summary Background, Lipodermatosclerosis (LDS) is characterized by a hardening and hyperpigmentation of lower leg skin as a consequence of chronic venous insufficiency. The degree of skin hardening or fibrosis associated with LDS is proposed to relate directly to skin breakdown and venous ulcer formation as well as to a subsequent delay in ulcer healing. Objectives, To determine whether elevated procollagen type I gene expression and increased cell proliferation are responsible for the fibrotic changes associated with LDS. Methods, Skin biopsies were obtained from the legs of patients with varying degrees of chronic venous disease and were assessed for procollagen gene expression by in-situ hybridization and for cell proliferation by immunolocalization of proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Results, The number of cells expressing procollagen type I mRNA (COL1A1) was significantly higher in the dermis of LDS-affected skin compared with samples from the other patient groups. In addition, there was a significant increase in the number of dermal fibroblasts undergoing proliferation in both LDS samples and skin samples prior to LDS changes compared with control samples. However, there was no significant difference in level of inflammation in biopsy samples between patient classes. Conclusions, These results suggest that enhanced cell proliferation and procollagen gene expression are both involved in LDS development. Furthermore, fibrotic changes may occur in the absence of, or subsequent to, any significant inflammatory response, indicating that additional profibrotic factors produced in the skin as a consequence of chronic venous insufficiency may play a role in LDS formation. [source] Clinical Use and Molecular Mechanisms of Action of Extract of Ginkgo biloba Leaves in Cardiovascular DiseasesCARDIOVASCULAR THERAPEUTICS, Issue 4 2004Wei Zhou ABSTRACT Ginkgo biloba is one of the oldest living tree species that has been referred to as a living fossil. Extract from Ginkgo biloba leaves (GBE) is among the most commonly used herbal drugs and is popularized for its alleged tonic effect and possible curative and restorative properties. There is an increasing evidence of the potential role of GBE in treating cardiovascular diseases. We examined the history of GBE usage and reviewed the literature on its effects on the cardiovascular system. In the extensive studies involving cell cultures and animal models, GBE has been shown to exert its action through diverse mechanisms. GBE has been reported to have antioxidatant properties, to modify vasomotor function, to reduce adhesion of blood cells to endothelium, to inhibit activation of platelets and smooth muscle cells, to affect ion channels, and to alter signal transduction. In addition, relevant clinical trials with CBE are being carried out, particularly in the treatment of arterial and venous insufficiency and in the prevention of thrombosis. Finally, the controversial clinical findings and the possible adverse interactions between GBE and other drugs are discussed. This review underscores the potential benefits of Ginkgo biloba in cardiovascular diseases, highlights the gaps in our current research, and suggests the necessity for more rigorous systematic investigation of cardiovascular properties of CBE. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||