(HealthDay News) — Patients with skin of color may experience more adverse events from sclerotherapy, according to a study published online July 26 in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Michelle Lazar, from the Boston University School of Medicine, and colleagues characterized the incidence of common adverse events following sclerotherapy in various Fitzpatrick Skin Types. The analysis included data from 134 patient visits for sclerotherapy (treated with 0.5 to 1 percent Polidocanol).
The researchers identified 12 adverse events across all visits, resulting in an 8.96 percent adverse event rate. Adverse events included blistering (six events), postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH; five events), induration (three events), superficial thrombophlebitis (one event), and ulcer (one event). There was no evidence of acute deep venous thrombosis in Doppler ultrasound in the patient with superficial thrombophlebitis. Overall, the majority of the adverse events occurred in Fitzpatrick Skin Types of III or higher, while all PIH adverse events occurred in patients with Fitzpatrick Skin Types of IV or higher.
“Our data highlights that sclerotherapy is safe in populations with skin of color, though they do experience PIH at a higher rate as compared to those with lighter skin tones,” the authors write.
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure commonly employed to address the appearance and symptoms of varicose and spider veins. These unsightly and often uncomfortable veins develop when blood pools in the veins instead of circulating efficiently back to the heart. While primarily a cosmetic concern, varicose veins can also cause pain, swelling, and fatigue.
The procedure involves the injection of a chemical solution, known as a sclerosant, directly into the affected vein. This solution irritates the vein’s lining, causing it to swell, stick together, and eventually scar. As the vein closes, blood is redirected through healthier veins. Over time, the treated vein fades from view.
Sclerotherapy is particularly effective for smaller varicose veins and spider veins, which are tiny, red or blue veins that appear close to the skin’s surface. Larger varicose veins may require additional treatments or alternative procedures.
The immediate effects of sclerotherapy on the skin are minimal. The treated area may experience temporary redness, swelling, or bruising following the injection. These side effects usually subside within a few days. However, it’s important to note that sclerotherapy is not without risks. Possible complications include skin discoloration, blood clots, and allergic reactions to the sclerosant.
What are some alternatives to sclerotherapy?
While sclerotherapy is a common and effective treatment for varicose and spider veins, it’s not the only option available. Several alternative procedures offer similar results with varying degrees of invasiveness.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT): This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a thin laser fiber into the affected vein. The laser heats and seals the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually disappear. EVLT is often preferred for larger varicose veins and can be more effective than sclerotherapy in certain cases.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Similar to EVLT, RFA uses radiofrequency energy to heat and close the affected vein. This method is also suitable for larger varicose veins and offers comparable results to EVLT.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy: This procedure involves removing varicose veins through tiny incisions. It’s often used in conjunction with other treatments for more extensive vein problems.
Polidocanol Injectable Foam: A newer option, sold under the name Varithena foam, is injected into the vein, causing it to collapse. This method is less painful than traditional sclerotherapy and may be more effective for certain types of veins.
Compression Stockings: While not a treatment in itself, compression stockings can help alleviate symptoms of varicose veins by improving blood circulation. They are often recommended as a complementary therapy to other treatments.
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