As its name indicates, varicose, gravitational, stasis or venous eczema is seen on the lower leg, often in people with varicose veins, and more commonly in women. The skin is dry, inflamed, itchy and can scale or crust.26,27,28

It is associated with poor circulation in the lower limbs due to weak or damaged valves (venous insufficiency) or obstruction (a thrombosis). Being overweight increases the risk of it occurring.29

Fluid pools in the lower legs and the resulting oedema leads to eruption of small, brown, pigmented spots which can itch. Small vesicles may occur, typically just above the inside of the ankle. If untreated this can progress to venous eczema, and problems can result from skin cracking or becoming infected,26

It has the potential to turn into an ulcer or progress into lipodermatosclerosis (hardened tight red or brown skin, typically affecting the inner aspect of the calf) or atrophie blanche (star-shaped, ivory-white, depressed, atrophic scars with surrounding pigmentation). Timely use of compression hosiery and exercise may help prevent varicose eczema developing.26,27,29