Spider Veins/Telangiectasia

Small, superficial veins that appear close to the surface of the skin and are dark in color (dark blue or purple) are called spider veins.  Clusters of spider veins can even look like a bruise.  Spider veins can form due to heredity, injury, pregnancy, or hormonal changes.  These veins are generally not harmful, but their appearance can make you self-conscious.  In some cases, these vessels can bleed, causing more serious problems.  

In many instances, spider veins are fed by larger sources of reflux occurring within the venous system and can be a sign of underlying venous disease. 

Treatment options include sclerotherapy and superficial laser ablation.