Lipodermatosclerosis
Cause and Symptoms
Lipodermatosclerosis is related to elevated pressure in leg veins (called venous hypertension), the result of leaky valves in those veins. Inflammation occurs as pressure backs up into capillaries, the small vessels. The slowing of the blood flow through the capillaries results in sludging and a buildup of toxins, which damage the skin. The condition occurs most frequently at middle age or later, in individuals who have excess weight.Lipodermatosclerosis may appear on the lower, inner portion of one or both legs. Symptoms include:
- Tender, warm inflammation above the ankle
- Scaling skin
- Hardening of skin (induration)
- Thickened skin
- Changes in pigmentation – an area of red, tan, or brown skin, sometimes with small flecks of white scarring
- Swelling from edema – increased fluid in the leg
- Change in leg shape, sometimes compared to an inverted champagne bottle or bowling pin
Lipodermatosclerosis may be accompanied by varicose veins and venous ulcers.
Customized Care
Once it becomes established, lipodermatosclerosis is a chronic condition. However, it can be effectively managed by Dr. Amanda Lloyd working with you to reduce inflammation, enhance circulation, and improve comfort and appearance. She begins with conservative compression therapy to increase blood flow. Then, treatment progresses to advanced techniques such as sclerotherapy, ultrasound therapy, endovenous laser ablation, and oral medications, as necessary.At Skin & Vein Institute, patients with lipodermatosclerosis get the benefit of expertise in vein treatment and dermatology under one roof. In addition to treating the root cause of lipodermatosclerosis – the venous insufficiency, Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Amanda Lloyd, provides dermatological care to heal and refine affected skin.
Your legs deserve this level of specialized attention. Call Skin & Vein Institute in Encinitas at (760) 642-6674 (new patients) or (760) 452-2080 (existing patients) to schedule an appointment with Dr. Amanda Lloyd, a Board-Certified dermatologist and diplomate of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine.
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Meet Dr. Amanda Lloyd
DR. AMANDA LLOYD HAS BEEN SERVING HER PATIENTS MORE THAN 15 YEARS.Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Amanda Lloyd has expertise ranging from cosmetic to cancerous. After completing her Bachelor’s degree, Medical Degree and Dermatology residency, she established the Skin & Vein Institute in Encinitas, CA. She is an authority on cosmetic dermatology and injectables, laser therapies, venous disease treatments and skin cancer surgery with cosmetic reconstruction. Additional training with Mohs Surgery and cosmetic dermatology fellowship, many published articles and textbook chapters have enhanced her profile.
Dr. Lloyd’s well-rounded approach to skin care, health, and appearance and membership in many dermatology associations have gained her respect among peers. She regularly lectures her peers at the dermatologic national meetings.
She has earned her patients trust as a dermatology authority who wants to make them look their best so they Look Stunning, Always.
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