Leg Discoloration and Hemosiderin Deposition: Causes, Vein Disease, and Treatment in Los Angeles
Many patients notice darkening, redness, or brown patches on their lower legs and ankles. While skin discoloration can come from many causes, one of the most common in adults is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) — a condition where blood pools in the veins instead of circulating back to the heart.
Over time, this pooling leads to hemosiderin deposition, a type of skin staining caused by iron from red blood cells that leak into surrounding tissue. At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the underlying venous disease that causes these skin changes.
What Is Hemosiderin Deposition?
Hemosiderin is a brown pigment made of iron. When leg veins are damaged or weakened, blood leaks into the skin. As red blood cells break down, iron is released and stored in the skin as hemosiderin. This results in:
- Brown or rust-colored patches on the lower legs
- Red or purple discoloration that doesn’t fade
- Skin that may feel tight, dry, or itchy
- Progression to thickened or hardened skin (lipodermatosclerosis) if untreated
Why Does Leg Discoloration Happen?
The most common cause of hemosiderin staining in the legs is chronic venous insufficiency. In this condition:
- Faulty vein valves allow blood to pool in the legs
- Increased pressure forces blood cells and fluid into surrounding tissues
- The breakdown of red blood cells leaves behind iron deposits in the skin
Leg discoloration from vein disease is not just a cosmetic issue — it can be a warning sign of advanced venous disease and may progress to ulcers or chronic wounds if not treated.
Other Conditions That Can Cause Leg Discoloration
While venous insufficiency is the most common culprit, other causes may include:
- Chronic skin inflammation or eczema
- Poor arterial circulation (peripheral artery disease)
- Trauma or repeated injury
- Infections or inflammatory skin disorders
This is why an accurate evaluation by a vein specialist is essential.
Treatment Options for Leg Discoloration
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, we focus on treating both the underlying venous disease and the skin changes it creates.
Conservative Management
- Compression therapy to reduce pooling of blood
- Leg elevation and exercise to improve circulation
- Skin care regimens to prevent dryness and irritation
Minimally Invasive Vein Treatments
- Endovenous thermal ablation – using heat energy to close diseased veins
- Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy – injecting medicine to seal problem veins
- Varithena® foam treatment – for larger varicose veins and underlying reflux
- Ambulatory phlebectomy – removal of bulging surface veins
By treating the root cause, we help stop further discoloration and reduce the risk of complications like ulcers.
When to See a Vein Doctor in Los Angeles
If you notice brown patches, redness, or skin darkening around your ankles or calves, don’t ignore it. These are often early warning signs of venous disease. Prompt treatment can improve skin appearance and prevent progression to more serious conditions.
Take the Next Step Toward Healthier Legs
At the Vein & Wound Center of LA, Dr. Christopher Kim and our team provide advanced vein care with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. If you’re experiencing leg discoloration or hemosiderin staining, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to restore both health and comfort.
👉 Call (213) 654-8346 today or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.
