DOI: 10.24019/issn.2532-0831

Online ISSN 2532-0831

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Vascular Research

Journal website: http://www.vasculab.eu/jtavr.xml

JTAVR 2018;3(3): EPub Ahead of Print

Proposal for a protocol for sex hormones level sampling in patients with varices to evidence pelvic reflux

S Ricci¹, MA Oswald²

Abstract  Sex hormonal direct action on venous system has been advocated for explaining further dilatation of already present limb varices, or stimulate recurrences after varicose veins removal, or even dilate normal veins inducing valves incompetence, typically in women, but also in men. Hormones can directly reach leg vein trough Pelvic Veins Incontinence. This event is frequent and quite well evidenced by Ultrasound or Radiology. Blood sampling of hormones from antecubital vein (as a control) compared with blood from varicose veins could more easily (and less costly) make possible to evidence this hormonal discrepancy whose ratio could become the index of this hormonal influence and, indirectly, pelvic reflux. Many clinical situations could benefit from this study, which may provide reasons for taking a less aggressive approach, for directing attention to leaking points and the identification of cases at risk of recurrences, suggesting a regular use of compression stockings.