What skin changes might indicate venous insufficiency?

Skin discoloration and edema are key indicators of venous insufficiency, which occurs when the veins are unable to effectively return blood to the heart, leading to increased venous pressure. This condition can result in a range of skin changes due to poor circulation and the accumulation of fluid in the affected areas, particularly in the lower extremities.

Discoloration often appears as a brownish or reddish hue, especially around the ankles and lower legs, due to the deposition of hemosiderin from breakdown of red blood cells in the tissues. Edema, or swelling, occurs because of fluid leaking into the interstitial spaces from the capillaries, exacerbated by the increased venous pressure. Together, these changes can help in the assessment and diagnosis of venous insufficiency, making this option the most relevant to the question.

In contrast, skin pallor and coolness are more commonly associated with arterial insufficiency, which occurs when there is inadequate blood flow through the arteries. Meanwhile, dryness and peeling of the skin may imply other dermatological or systemic issues, rather than venous problems. Redness and warmth typically indicate inflammation or infection, rather than the chronic changes seen in venous insufficiency. Thus, discoloration and edema specifically reflect the pathological