Marginal Vein is Not a Simple Varicose Vein: It is a Silent Killer!: Invited Article

Marginal vein (MV) is not an ordinary varicose vein; it is an embryonic vein remnant classified as a truncular venous malformation (VM). MV is the result of defective development along the later stage of embryogenesis while the vein trunk is formed. MV exists most often with Klippel Trenaunay Syndrome (KTS), representing as its major VM component; VM is a part of combined form of congenital vascular malformation (CVM) involved with KTS together with the lymphatic malformation. MV accompanies a high risk of venous thromboembolism due to defective vessel structure with a lack of smooth muscle cell to form the media in addition to avalvulosis condition, often resulting in fatal pulmonary embolism. Early ablation of the MV is indicated whenever feasible as far as the deep vein system is normal, especially when the MV causes a vascular bone syndrome. Otherwise, prophylactic anticoagulation is strongly recommended.