Risk factors for developing venous leg ulceration
Several risk factors for development of venous ulceration have been described.
- direct risk factors
- varicose veins
- deep vein thrombosis
- chronic venous insufficiency
- poor calf muscle function
- arterio-venous fistulae
- obesity
- history of leg fracture
- indirect risk factors
- all risk factors leading to deep vein thrombosis including protein-C, protein-S, and anti-thrombin III deficiency
- family history of varicose veins
- a history of minor trauma prior to the development of ulceration may also be identified
Recurrent venous ulceration occurs in up to 70% of those at risk (2).
Reference:
1. Srinivasaiah N, Dugdall H, Barrett S, et al. A point prevalence survey of wounds in north-east England. J Wound Care 2007;16:413–419.
2. Grey JE, Harding KG, Enoch S. Venous and arterial leg ulcers. BMJ. 2006;332(7537):347-50.
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