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Stasis dermatitis is characterized by dilated and proliferative dermal vessels, hemosiderin deposition and dermal fibrosis (Rapini).

A closer look at proliferative and variably dilated dermal vessels.

Note the hemosiderin deposition, which has a chunky texture.

BACKGROUND

Stasis dermatitis occurs on the lower extremities in older adults suffering from chronic venous insufficiency. The risk of developing stasis dermatitis increases with age. The prevalence of stasis dermatitis is approximately 20% in those older than 70 years of age. Clinically, there is erythematous, pigmented and scaling skin on the lower extremtities. There may be ulceration in longstanding cases (Flugman).

REFERENCES

Flugman S. Stasis Dermatitis: eMedicine. Last updated on May 7 2010. Available at: emedicine.medscape.com/article/1084813

Rapini RP.Practical Dermatopathology. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2005: 47.

Last updated: 2012-10-22
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