Atrophie blanche: Is it associated with venous disease or livedoid vasculopathy?

PURPOSE: The purpose of this learning activity is to provide information about the etiology and treatment of atrophie blanche. TARGET AUDIENCE: This continuing education activity is intended for physicians and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care. OBJECTIVES: After participating in this educational activity, the participant should be better able to:1. Discuss the pathophysiology of atrophie blanche.2. Explore treatment options for livedoid vasculopathy. ABSTRACT: Atrophie blanche (AB) is a porcelain-white scar that may be seen at the base of a healed ulcer or in association with livedoid vasculopathy (LV). The term AB originally had been used synonymously with LV, whereas LV is a noninflammatory thrombotic condition presenting as either a primary or secondary event (often associated with coagulation).