Stasis dermatitis is a red itchy rash on the lower legs. It occurs after long-term swelling of the lower leg, usually from poor blood circulation.
Poor blood flow from the lower legs back to the heart causes swelling of the lower legs. Over time, this creates poor circulation in the skin of the legs. The skin begins to break into a rash, typically over the shins. It may eventually become weeping sores.
Stasis dermatitis is usually caused by poor blood flow from the veins of the legs back to the heart. It is seen most often in middle-aged people or people who are elderly. The poor blood flow may be associated with the following conditions:
The rash is often made worse by the use of salves or ointments. It may be aggravated by infection with bacteria or fungus.