Telagiectasia a condition characterized by dilatation of the capillaries causing them to appear as small red or purple clusters, often spidery in appearance, on the skin or the surface of an organ. Their formation is gradual. Telangiectases are common in areas that are easily seen (lips, nose, eyes, fingers, oral cavities). They can cause discomfort and look unattractive
Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) may cause the formation of abnormal blood vessels called arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). These may occur in several areas of the body. These AVMs allow direct connection between arteries and veins without intervening capillaries. This may result in hemorrhage (severe bleeding). This bleeding can be deadly if it occurs in the brain, liver, or lungs.
Telangiectases can be uncomfortable. They are generally not life-threatening, but may be unattractive.
Symptoms include:
• Pain (related to pressure on venules)
• Itching
• Red marks on the skin
The symptoms of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia include:
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Red or dark black blood in stools
• Shortness of breath
• Seizures
• Small strokes
• Port-wine stain birthmark
• Clinical Examination:
Telangiectasia is easily seen as red marks or lines on the skin.
• To diagnose HHT, doctors may perform magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a computed tomography (CT) scan to look for bleeding or abnormalities inside the body.
Treatment focuses on improving the appearance of the skin. Different methods include:
• Laser ablation: laser targets the widened vessel and seals it (short recovery and little pain)
• Surgery: widened vessels can be removed (very painful and long recovery)
• Sclerotherapy: focuses on causing damage to the inner lining of the blood vessel. This is followed by a blood clot causing the venule to collapse, thicken, or scar.
Treatment for HHT may include:
• Bmbolization (a procedure to block or close a blood vessel)
• Laser therapy to stop bleeding
• Surgery
Consult at Aadil hospital for treatment.
