The effect of steroid hormones on the vascular biology of veins

Varicosis, thrombosis and phlebosclerosis represent the spectrum of chronic venous disease. The mechanisms underlying varicosis are unknown. Recent da ta suggest that vascular disease results from transmural remodeling process es, that are triggered by molecular events. Because varicosis is clinically related to pregnancy and hormone treatment, this manuscript deals with the effects of sex steroids on proteins that are controlling vascular remodeli ng. Key mechanisms of vascular remodeling of veins are not sufficiently kno wn to justify therapeutic recommendations.