sclerosante

Sclerosante, in medical terminology, refers to a chemical agent used to induce sclerosis in targeted tissues. The goal is to provoke controlled irritation and inflammation that leads to thrombosis and subsequent fibrosis, resulting in the obliteration or closing of abnormal vessels, spaces, or tissues. Sclerosants can be liquids, foams, or gels, and are often delivered by injection under imaging guidance or endoscopic visualization.

Common sclerosants include polidocanol and sodium tetradecyl sulfate (detergent-type sclerosants), absolute ethanol, and hypertonic saline. Other agents used in specific contexts include doxycycline, ethanolamine oleate, and bleomycin. The choice of agent, its concentration, and formulation (for example, foam) depend on the type of tissue treated, the size of the vessel or lesion, and patient factors.

Typical uses encompass sclerotherapy for varicose and venous malformations, treatment of certain esophageal varices, lymphatic malformations, and various cystic or vascular lesions. Sclerosants are also employed in pleurodesis to prevent recurrent pleural effusions or pneumothorax by promoting adhesion between pleural layers.

Administration usually involves targeted injection into the lesion, vessel, or cavity. Foam formulations can increase contact with endothelium and are often used for larger veins. Procedural safety requires professional expertise; potential adverse effects include local pain, inflammation, skin hyperpigmentation, tissue necrosis from extravasation, accidental thrombosis, and, rarely, systemic reactions or embolism.

Sclerosants are regulated as medical agents and are used by trained clinicians in appropriate clinical settings.