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).