Livedoid Vasculopathy
Introduction
Livedoid vasculopathy is a painful and chronic blood vessel disorder that results in the formation of ulcers and scars on the lower legs and feet. These ulcers are very painful, chronic in nature and relapses often. Lesions of livedoid vasculopathy appear as a purple or red color marks that are painful to touch and gradually progress to form ulcers. Women are more prone to get affected with this disorder and symptoms usually worsen in summers and winters. Lupus thrombophilia is the condition which is commonly found associated with livedoid vasculopathy. Diagnosis of this thrombo-occlusive cutaneous vasculopathy is confirmed through a biopsy examination of the skin of the affected area.
Pathogenesis of this condition is not clear but this disorder can occur alone or in combination with other systemic diseases. It is also known as ‘atrophieblanche’ due to the presence of ivory-white, smooth plaques that are characteristic features of livedoid vasculopathy. These plaques are produced due to the recurrent ulcer formation in the affected area. This type of plaque deposition can also occur in certain venous insufficiency disorders. However the term vasculitis should be avoided being used for it as there is no inflammation in the blood vessels.
What is the Causes of Livedoid Vasculopathy?
The exact pathology of livedoid vasculopathy remains unknown but there are certain factors that result in the occurrence of this condition. It is an autoimmune disorder. Hypercoagulability is the main mechanism which is behind this disorder. There are some genetic mutations in certain coagulatory factors which result in hypercoagulability in the blood causing livedoid vasculopathy. There are intraluminal thrombosis formation and proliferation of the endometrium, resulting in the formation of ulcers and eventually scar formation.
However it is found to be associated with some of the systemic diseases :-
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Scleroderma
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Sjogren’s syndrome
- Polyarteritisnodosa
- Mixed and undifferentiated connective tissue disease
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Livedoid Vasculopathy?
- Recurrent and chronic ulcer formation
- Severe pain in ulcers
- Burning sensation
- Irregular atrophie blanche
- Raynaud phenomenon
- Purple or red color spots
How can Livedoid Vasculopathy be Diagnosed?
Patient’s history is very important in every case as half of the case is revealed in it. After history physician can ask the patient to go for certain tests in order to confirm the diagnosis.
- CBC (Complete blood count)
- Study of coagulatory factors
- Homocysteine levels
- Lupus coagulant
There are some diseases which may also result in the formation of similar types of ulcers, hence they are to rule out in order to confirm the diagnosis of Livedoid vasculopathy.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Small vessel vasculitis
- Systemic sclerosis
- Malignant atrophic papulosis
- Cutaneous polyarteritisnodosa
The Goodnews!?
The good news is that Livedoid Vasculopathy is preventable and reversible, but can only be possible by using holistic approach, the one advocated in Ayurveda that addresses the issues from the very root.
Since ancient times, Ayurveda has defined diseases with their symptoms, causes and healing methods with nature.
If you are having any of the above mentioned symptoms, don’t assume it is Livedoid Vasculopathy yet without any proper diagnosis because there are other Skin related diseases that comes with the same symptoms. Consult with a Doctor for accurate diagnosis to find out if Livedoid Vasculopathy is what you are having or any other related disease.
Vine-Health Approach to Livedoid Vasculopathy?
As a holistic health clinic, we take accurate diagnosis very seriously in order to ascertain the root cause of a particular illness. You will be consulted with our doctor to know the type of test or scan to run base on your symptoms to detect exactly the root cause of your issue to ascertain if Livedoid Vasculopathy is your issue or not to ensure appropriate treatment.
Accurate diagnosis is the key to the treatment of any disease.
We can really help you out of the issue!
Contact us for your accurate diagnosis or for any issues