Definition
Telangiectasias are small, widened blood vessels on the skin. They are usually harmless, but may be associated with several diseases.
Alternative Names
Vascular ectasias; Spider veins
Causes
Telangiectasias may develop anywhere within the body. But they are most easily seen on the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes. Usually, they do not cause symptoms. Some telangiectasias bleed and cause significant problems. Telangiectasias may also occur in the brain and cause major problems from bleeding.
Causes may include:
- Rosacea
- Aging
- Genetics
- Pregnancy
- Sun exposure
- Varicose veins
Diseases associated with this condition include:
- Ataxia - telangiectasia
- Bloom syndrome
- Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita
- Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome)
- Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome
- Nevus flammeus such as port-wine stain
- Rosacea
- Spider angioma
- Sturge-Weber disease
- Xeroderma pigmentosa
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you notice enlarged vessels in the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
The provider will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms, including:
- Where are the blood vessels located?
- Do they bleed easily and without reason?
- What other symptoms are present?
Tests may be needed to diagnose or rule out a medical condition. Tests may include:
- Blood tests
- CT scans
- Liver function studies
- MRI scans
- X-rays
Sclerotherapy is the treatment for telangectasias on the legs. In this procedure, a saline (salt) solution or other chemical is injected directly into the spider veins on the legs. Laser treatment is typically used to treat telangiectasias of the face.
References
James WD, Berger TG, Elston DM. Cutaneous vascular diseases. In: James WD, Berger TG, Elston DM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 35.
Kelly R, Baker C. Other vascular disorders. In: Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV, eds. Dermatology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2012:chap 106.
Version Info
- Last reviewed on 4/14/2015
- Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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