Progression in venous pathology

AimTo review epidemiologic data on progression of venous pathology in varicose veins and from varicose veins towards chronic venous insufficiency.MethodsWe searched Medline and PubMed for epidemiologic studies concerning progression of venous pathology.ResultsThe data suggest that reflux progression may develop from segmental to multisegmental superficial reflux. In younger age, reflux in tributaries and non-saphenous veins is more frequent. In older age, more saphenous reflux develops and more proximal sites seem to be affected. A high proportion of uncomplicated varicose vein (C2) develops skin changes and chronic venous insufficiency (C3–C6). Significant risk factors for the progression of varicose vein towards venous leg ulcers are skin changes, corona phlebectatica, higher body mass index and popliteal vein reflux. During a 13.4-year follow-up period, 57.8% (4.3%/year) of all chronic venous disease patients showed progression of the disease.SummaryStudies on the progression of venous pathology show a...