What is a reticular vein?

What is a reticular vein?

A reticular vein is a dilated bluish intradermal vein, usually from 1 mm in diameter to less than 3 mm in diameter. They are usually tortuous. Reticular veins are also known as blue veins and intradermal varices. In the classification of veins, reticular veins are considered type III veins. Telangiectasias (type I veins) can result from refluxing reticular veins. When such reticular veins are associated with telangiectasias, they are called "feeder veins". If sclerotherapy is chosen as the treatment for a particuar patient, the reticular veins should be injected first and the telangiectasias last. Until the reticular veins are treatd first, telangiectasias should not be targeted so as to avoid early recurrence.

What causes spider veins?

The causes of varicose veins are varied and are related to reflux disease at the saphenofemoral juntion (venous reflux disease) or perforators at the thigh, knee or ankle. Venous reflux disease causing varicose veins can be treated using vein stripping orradiofrequency closure.

However, the etiology contributing to the development of spider veins are multiple and include heredity, pregnancy, hormonal factors, weight gain and occupations that necessitate prolonged sitting or standing.

Spider veins are less than 1 mm in diameter. Reticular veins are 1 mm to 3 mm in diameter.