A venous lake is a common type of vascular lesion, typically appearing as a small, dilated blood vessel. These lesions are generally considered harmless and are not associated with serious health risks. While often a cosmetic concern.
What a Venous Lake Is
A venous lake typically presents as a soft, compressible bump or macule, ranging from dark blue to purple in color. These lesions usually measure between 0.2 to 1 centimeter in diameter, though they can vary in size. When gentle pressure is applied, the blood inside drains out, causing the lesion to flatten and temporarily disappear before refilling once the pressure is released.
While most frequently observed on the lower lip, venous lakes can also appear on other sun-exposed areas such as the ears, face, and neck. They are benign, and are essentially dilated venules. Although they are generally asymptomatic and do not cause pain, a venous lake can sometimes bleed if it is traumatized or injured.
Causes and Development
The exact cause of venous lakes is not fully understood, but chronic sun exposure is considered a primary contributing factor. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the walls of superficial veins, leading to their weakening and dilation. This cumulative damage over time is thought to contribute to the formation of these lesions.
Venous lakes are more commonly observed in older individuals. Age-related changes in the skin and vascular structures, combined with years of sun exposure, are believed to increase susceptibility. Other less common factors that may contribute to their development include trauma, such as lip biting, or even cigarette smoking, especially for lesions on the lips.
Treatment Options
Treatment for venous lakes is often sought for cosmetic reasons or if the lesion becomes symptomatic, such as experiencing recurrent bleeding. If a venous lake is not causing any issues, observation without intervention is a valid approach. However, for those seeking removal, several effective methods are available.
Laser therapy has emerged as a widely used and effective treatment due to its minimally invasive nature. Lasers target the blood within the dilated vessel, causing it to coagulate and shrink. Surgical excision is another option, particularly for larger or persistent lesions, though it may leave a scar. Less common alternatives include cryotherapy (freezing) and sclerotherapy (injecting a solution to close off the vessel). Consulting a dermatologist is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the most suitable treatment plan.