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A different way to look at varicose veins
1Department of Vascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn.
Journal of Vascular Surgery. Venous and Lymphatic Disorders
|March 20, 2016
Summary
Varicose veins may not be a disease but a sign of a beneficial trait. Individuals prone to varicose veins might possess a superior ability to form essential collateral blood vessels, potentially improving survival.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Biology
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Varicose vein development is traditionally linked to vessel wall degeneration.
- High prevalence and genetic predisposition suggest a potential survival advantage.
- This challenges the view of varicose veins as solely pathological.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the hypothesis that varicose vein formation shares mechanisms with collateral vessel growth.
- To investigate potential clinical outcome differences between individuals with and without varicose veins.
Main Methods:
- A literature review was conducted.
- Selected works explored shared mechanisms in varicose vein, collateral vessel, artery, and lymphatic vessel formation.
- Studies examining clinical outcomes in relation to varicose veins were included.
Main Results:
- Evidence indicates individuals adept at forming varicose veins may also excel at forming collateral vessels.
- These individuals may exhibit enhanced overall survival rates.
- Reduced cardiovascular morbidity is suggested in those with varicose veins.
Conclusions:
- Varicose veins might represent a trade-off for an enhanced capacity to develop collateral circulation.
- This enhanced collateralization could confer a survival benefit, particularly when needed.
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