Cor Vasa 2025, 67(Suppl.3):63-67 | DOI: 10.33678/cor.2025.014

Chronic Venous Insufficiency in a 55-Year-Old Female: Highlighting Overlooked Cases for Increased Awareness

Nathania Nathania^a, Fadhilah Mahrus Tauhid^a, Jesselyn Wijaya^a, Attaillah Moza^a, Al Fatih Muhammad Ismail^a, Georaldhy Yussufy Caecarma^b, Niko Azhari Hidayat^c

^a Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia

^b Department of Thoracic, Cardiac, and Vascular Surgery, Fakultas Kedokteran Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia

^c Faculty of Advanced Technology Multidiscipline, Universitas Airlangga Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia

Introduction: Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a prevalent condition characterized by impaired venous flow leading to venous hypertension. This dysfunction often results from valve failure due to varicose veins, deep vein damage, or vein wall weakness influenced by altered collagen and elastin. CVI manifests as dilated veins, leg edema, pain, and skin changes. Despite its significant impact, CVI remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, often progressing to postphlebitic syndrome and venous ulcers. This study aims to highlight the prevalence of CVI in this high-risk population and to provide insights into effective preventive measures and management strategies to reduce complications and improve patient outcomes. Case illustration: A 55-year-old female presented in February 2024 with progressive swelling and ulceration of the left leg, worsening over three months. The swelling, exacerbated by prolonged standing and relieved by elevation, was accompanied by a heavy, painful sensation. An earlier episode of similar symptoms six months prior had improved with short-term treatment. Physical examination revealed non-pitting edema and a 10 × 10 cm ulcer on the left leg. The patient had a BMI of 28.23, blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg and no significant medical history aside from the current condition. Ultrasound showed venous insufficiency without obstruction.

Discussion: CVI is caused by venous valve incompetence leading to venous hypertension and tissue damage. This condition progresses from venous stasis to skin changes and ulcer formation. The patient's symptoms align with CVI's typical presentation, exacerbated by her overweight status and gender. Effective management includes conservative measures like compression stockings, leg elevation, and lifestyle changes, along with advanced treatments such as sclerotherapy, thermal ablation, and, when necessary, surgical intervention. The case underscores the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive management to prevent progression and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion: CVI, often under-recognized, requires timely intervention to prevent severe complications. This case highlights the need for heightened awareness and proactive treatment, especially in high-risk populations. Comprehensive management strategies, including lifestyle modifications and advanced therapies, are essential for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.

Keywords: Case report, Chronic venous insufficiency, Compression therapy

Received: December 4, 2024; Revised: December 4, 2024; Accepted: January 21, 2025; Prepublished online: June 2, 2012; Published: September 1, 2025  Show citation