The Causes of Stasis Dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is usually caused by poor blood flow from the veins of the legs back to the heart. It is seen most often in middle-aged people or people who are elderly. The poor blood flow may be associated with the following conditions:
~varicose veins, which are bulging veins caused by damage to the valves within the veins
blood clots in the veins of the lower legs or pelvis
~congestive heart failure, a condition in which a weakened heart is unable to pump blood effectively throughout the body
~kidney failure
~chronic leg swelling

The rash is often made worse by the use of salves or ointments. It may be aggravated by infection with bacteria or fungus.