CEAP classification and implications for investigations.

Classification of diseases is a basic instrument for uniform diagnosis and meaningful communication about the disease. The credo of the American Venous Forum (AVF) is that "The cornerstone for management of chronic venous disorders (CVD) is a proper diagnosis and accurate classification of the underlying venous problem, which creates the base for correctly directed treatment". In CVD reliance for too long has been placed on the clinical appearance of the superficial effects of CVD, such as spider veins, varicose veins, swelling, skin changes, and ulcerations, without requiring accurate objective testing of the venous system to substantiate the diagnosis. This practice has caused errors of diagnosis and has been largely responsible for the poor correlation of results between treatment methods. There have been several classifications in the past that have added to our understanding of CVD, but all lack the completeness and objectivity needed for scientific accuracy.