Pathophysiology of venous leg ulceration--an update

The microcirculatory component of the pathophysiology of venous ulceration is now attracting considerable research interests, but is still far from fully elucidated. Currently, the central role is filled by the inappropriately activated white cell and its interaction with the endothelium. Interstitial oedema, pericapillary fibrin cuff and capillary microthromboses could all fit in with this hypothesis. However, there are other demonstrated changes, for instance in lymphatic drainage, intrinsic fibrinolysis and hemorheological changes which also need to be taken into account. The interaction between the microcirculatory changes is an obvious target for the systemic pharmacotherapy of venous ulceration.