Molecular mechanisms underlying the development of varicose veins of low extremities

Abstract

Varicose veins of lower extremities are a common human pathology. Its pathogenesis is still not fully investigated. Valvular incompetence and reflux have previously been thought to be the cause of this condition. However, recent evidence from ultrasound and histological studies indicates that structural and functional alterations in the vein wall can precede valvular dysfunction. These changes, on the one hand, are caused by changes in hemodynamic forces. On the other hand, they provoke further blood flow deceleration, blood stasis and vein wall stretch resulting in vicious cycle that is considered to underlie the development of varicose veins. The present review summarizes current knowledge about molecular mechanisms of varicose transformation.