SKIN CARE TODAY
2015,Vol 1, No 1
55
FOCUS ON VENOUS ECZEMA
i
CONCLUSION
Venous eczema is a progressive
inflammatory skin condition, the
aetiology of which is strongly
associated with chronic venous
disease and insufficiency. Venous
eczema forms part of a spectrum of
skin manifestations (haemosiderin
patches, telegiectasia,
lipodermatosclerosis, atrophie
blanche and venous ulceration),
which can progress to complicated
disease management, high
morbidity and low quality of life.
A holistic nursing approach is
advocated to address the physical,
psychological, social and financial
aspects of the condition. Thorough
assessment of venous disease and
skin will inform decision-making
regarding interventions.
Referral for specialist opinion
(dermatology and vascular surgery)
is indicated in the following
situations:
i
Uncertain diagnosis
i
Failure to respond to treatment
i
Suspicion of contact dermatitis
or allergic hypersensitivity
reaction
i
Progression of vascular
insufficiency or chronic
vascular disease
i
Deterioration of skin condition,
lipodermatosclerosis, ulceration
i
Assessment and review of co-
morbidities in at-risk patients
i
Evidence of psychological
morbidity.
Community nurses have an
important role to play in the
management of venous eczema.
Understanding the nature of the
disease and early medical/nursing
intervention can positively influence
patient experiences and outcomes.
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