subject: What Are Vascular Lesions? [print this page] "Vascular lesions" is an inclusive term which includes several different types of conditions. There are many different types of ruptures in blood vessels which occur close to the surface of the skin and create unsightly spots in the skin, such as spider veins. These are all grouped into the larger category of conditions which are known as vascular lesions.
Spider veins are one of the more common types of vascular lesions, and one which many people try to eliminate through cosmetic procedures. Spider veins are essentially little tiny capillaries which leak blood and become very visible and unsightly. They are most common in the legs, but can appear in any part of the body.
There are any types of vascular lesions which exist, but many of them are going to be characterized by redness under the skin. These types of conditions can often be treated with the laser treatments which will be administered by any reputable skin care clinic. The lasers are used to heat up the blood under the skin causing it to break free of the tiny blood vessels. This eventually makes the problem spot absorb back into the body, and should eliminate the unsightly spot.
Vascular lesion is a term which can describe many different types of skin problems though. In addition to problems like spider veins, there are certain types of birthmarks which also fall into the category of vascular lesions. Unlike spider veins, these problems cannot always be treated so easily, however, there may still be treatment options which can help correct them.
The important thing to realize about all types of vascular lesions is that they can be a purely cosmetic issue, or they can be an indicator of something more serious. It is impossible to know which they are unless you allow yourself to visit a doctor and have your lesions examined. Essentially, whenever you start to notice unusual looking objects on or under your skin, such as red or bright patches which don't vanish after a few days, then it is worth having them looked at. Many times your doctor will simply say that the vascular lesions are superficial in nature, but there are some situations where they may want to test to see if they are indicator of another condition. Don't go for cosmetic treatments until a doctor has decided that the lesions are merely a superficial problem, otherwise you could be ignoring an important symptom.
