Risk factors for developing venous leg ulceration

Several risk factors for development of venous ulceration have been described.

• direct risk factors
  • varicose veins
  • deep vein thrombosis
  • chronic venous insufficiency
  • poor calf muscle function
  • arterio-venous fistulae
  • obesity
  • history of leg fracture
    
• indirect risk factors
  • all risk factors leading to deep vein thrombosis including protein-C, protein-S, and anti-thrombin III deficiency
  • family history of varicose veins
  • a history of minor trauma prior to the development of ulceration may also be identified

Recurrent venous ulceration occurs in up to 70% of those at risk (2).

Reference:

1. Srinivasaiah N, Dugdall H, Barrett S, et al. A point prevalence survey of wounds in north-east England. J Wound Care 2007;16:413–419.

2. Grey JE, Harding KG, Enoch S. Venous and arterial leg ulcers. BMJ. 2006;332(7537):347-50.