The treatment of leg telangiectasia.

Leg telangiectasia is more difficult to treat than facial telangiectasia. Investigations may be needed to elucidate the origin of the telangiectasia. In cases of venous insufficiency, investigation of venous haemodynamics is desirable. Treatment is primarily by sclerotherapy, including foam sclerotherapy. Light and laser treatments are also effective, especially for telangiectasia up to 1 mm in diameter. New developments incorporate longer pulse durations, such as frequency-doubled neodynium YAG and diode lasers as well as intense pulsed light. After all treatment methods, compression for 48 h using pads, bandages or hosiery is recommended. As with all cosmetic procedures, patients need to be tutored comprehensively about anticipated results and possible complications or side-effects.