Telangiectasia
Definition
Telangiectasias are small blood vessels just below the surface of the skin. The blood vessels are very visible through the skin. They may appear as a single vessel or as many vessels in clusters.
Causes
Telangiectasias is caused by blood vessels that are stuck in a wide open position. There is no clear reason for why this happens.
Some telangiectasias are due to conditions like:
Risk Factors
Factors that increase your risk for telangiectasias are based on the underlying condition.
Symptoms
This condition usually does not cause symptoms.
Signs of telangiectasias may include:
- Red patches of skin that have a lacy pattern
- Patches of red skin that turn white when pressure is applied, then red again after pressure is removed
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Depending on the cause of the lesion, your doctor may take a
biopsy
of the area. You may be referred to a skin specialist.
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Often, treatment is not needed for the telangiectasias itself. The underlying condition may need to be treated.
If you feel self-conscious, make-up can be used to cover the red patches. Depending on the type of telangiectasia, laser therapy may be used to destroy the vessels.
Prevention
There is no proven way to prevent this condition.
RESOURCES
American Academy of Dermatology
http://aad.org
American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor
http://www.familydoctor.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES
Canadian Dermatology Association
http://www.dermatology.ca
The College of Family Physicians of Canada
http://www.cfpc.ca
References
Generalised essential telangiectasia. DermNet NZ website. Available at:
http://dermnetnz.org/vascular/essential-telangiectasia.html
. Updated July 1, 2011. Accessed February 21, 2013.
Rosacea. DermNet NZ website. Available at:
http://dermnetnz.org/acne/rosacea.html
. Updated February 6, 2013. Accessed February 21, 2013.
Rosacea. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what. Updated August 22, 2011. Accessed February 21, 2013.
Rosacea. NHS Clinical Knowledge Summaries website. Available at:
http://www.cks.nhs.uk/home
. Accessed February 21, 2013.
Spider telangiectasias. Boston Children's Hospital website. Available at: http://www.childrenshospital.org/az/Site2926/mainpageS2926P1.html. Accessed February 21, 2013.