Stasis Dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is a skin irritation on the lower legs generally related to circulatory problems.
Stasis refers to a stoppage or slowdown in the flow of blood (or other body fluid such as lymph). Stasis dermatitis are skin changes caused by fluid build-up under the skin.
A stasis ulcer is an ulcer (a crater) that develops in an area in which the circulation is sluggish and the venous return (the return of venous blood toward the heart) is poor. A common location for stasis ulcers is on the ankle.
"Stasis" is a Greek word meaning "the posture for standing" and is derived from the Greek "histemi" meaning "to make stand still."

The symptoms of Stasis dermatitis include:
Swelling of legs, ankles, or other areas
Skin appears thin, tissue-like
Skin lesion: macule or patch
Skin spots, red
Darkening of skin at the ankles or legs
Thickening of skin at the ankles or legs
Open sores, ulcers (may develop)
Superficial skin irritation of the legs
Itching (of the affected area)
Leg pains (in the affected area)

To treat stasis dermatitis the underlying condition and swelling must be controlled. This may include surgical correction of varicose veins, medications to control heart failure, or diuretics to remove excess fluid.Circulation in the area may be improved as edema is reduced. This can be aided by elevation of the legs above the level of the heart until swelling is lessened. Gradual increase in gentle activity, such as walking, can improve circulation.Elastic stockings may be recommended to improve venous blood return from the legs, which will reduce swelling.Treatment of the skin may include wet dressings and topical antibiotics to control infection in open ulcers.The skin area should be kept clean and observed for signs of infection (pain, redness, drainage that looks like pus).