Stasis Dermatitis Decoded: Diagnosis, Clues, and Care Essentials

Welcome back, DERM Community!

Last week, we explored the multifactorial nature of urticaria, examining its acute and chronic forms, underlying mechanisms, and management approaches.

This week, we shift our attention to a condition that often signals systemic disease through cutaneous findings:

Stasis dermatitis.

Though frequently categorized as a dermatologic concern, stasis dermatitis reflects underlying chronic venous insufficiency.

Misdiagnosis is common, and failure to address the vascular component can result in long-term complications, including ulceration and recurrent infections.

Featured on This Week’s Chapter:

Understanding and Managing Stasis Dermatitis

• Clinical features that differentiate stasis dermatitis from eczematous dermatitis or cellulitis

• The role of chronic venous hypertension in skin changes

• Diagnostic considerations, including vascular studies and exclusion of mimickers

• Long-term management strategies: beyond topical therapy

What is Stasis Dermatitis?

It is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis resulting from venous hypertension, most commonly affecting the lower extremities. It is characterized by:

• Erythema, pruritus, scaling, and lichenification

• Brownish discoloration due to hemosiderin deposition

• Edema and skin atrophy in advanced stages

• Risk of venous ulceration and secondary infection

Unlike other dermatoses, successful management of stasis dermatitis requires addressing both cutaneous inflammation and underlying venous pathology.

Need more than just an infographic?

 We Made You a Free, Downloadable Guide:

Want to see real cases with real outcomes?

Our dedicated Stasis Dermatitis Module offers case-based learning to support diagnosis and long-term management of patients with venous-related dermatoses.

Everything you need in one place!

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👋🏻 See you next Thursday, DERM community!

Thanks for joining us on Beneath the Surface.

Urticaria may come and go, but for patients, it’s a chronic source of anxiety, frustration, and missed diagnoses.

Our job? Spot patterns, know when to investigate, and treat the person, not just the rash.

If today’s pearls helped clear up the mystery of hives, share them with your peers, students, or allergy friends.

— The Derm for Primary Care Team