Palmar Telangiectasias: A Cutaneous Sign for Smoking
Assi Levi1, Ronen Shechter, Moshe Lapidoth
1Photodermatosis Clinic and Laser Unit, Department of Dermatology, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petah Tikva, Israel.
Background:
Telangiectasias are permanent dilations of blood capillaries which appear in a variety of medical conditions. Cutaneous palmar telangiectasias have been postulated to be associated with smoking.
Objective:
To determine whether a significant correlation exists between palmar telangiectasias and smoking habits.
Patients And Methods:
A total of 124 volunteers participated in this observational study by allowing physical evaluation of their palms and by completing a questionnaire.
Results:
Palmar telangiectasias were found to be associated with current or past smoking. Neither age nor gender was found to be a co-contributor.
Discussion:
Palmar telangiectasias were found to constitute highly specific and sensitive markers for prolonged smoking.
Related Concept Videos
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Cardiovascular System Abnormal Findings I: Inspection and Palpation
Abnormal findings observed during an inspection
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System II: Inspection
Head and Neck
Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above...
Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction
Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests


