Sensory testing in patients with chronic venous leg ulcers

Studies have shown the presence of peripheral sensory neuropathy in patients with severe chronic venous insufficiency. (Reinhardt et al, 2000; Padberg et al, 1999; Shami et al, 1993) This could, therefore, be considered a cofactor in the pathogenesis of venous ulceration. Altered nervous control of the skin microcirculation may cause: Abnormalities of the vasomotor system; Impairment of the venoarteriolar reflex; Increased skin blood flow in lipodermatosclerotic skin (induration resulting from fibrosis of subcutaneous fat) of patients with chronic venous insufficiency (Shami et al, 1993). Sensory impairment probably contributes to the deterioration that occurs in local tissue following a minor trauma in patients with chronic venous insufficiency (Padberg et al, 1999). The aim of this study was objectively to ascertain the presence of a sensory neuropathy in the feet of patients with chronic venous insufficiency, using a 10 g Owen Mumford monofilament.