ABSTRACT
Review of published studies on varicose veins is hampered by the variety of methods used
to assess, define and classify the condition. The definition of varicose veins used in a given
study is often not stated or varies, making comparison from one publication to another
impossible. The CEAP classification states that “varicose veins are palpable, dilated
subcutaneous veins usually larger than 4 mm” (1). Not surprisingly, studies of the
prevalence of varicose veins have produced markedly disparate findings, with figures
varying from 4.5% to 57% (2). The mechanism(s) responsible for their development are
incompletely understood, however, a number of theories of etiology have been suggested
with varying degrees of clinical and pathological evidence. The suggested theories have to
explain in some form the findings from studies of varicose vein epidemiology, imaging
and pathology.
