sclerosing

Sclerosing is the process of causing hardening or stiffening of tissue, and can refer to both a general biological phenomenon and specific medical procedures. In pathology, sclerosis describes an abnormal hardening due to fibrosis, calcification, or other changes that replace normal tissue with dense, scar-like material.

In medical contexts, sclerosing often denotes the use of sclerosants—chemical agents that damage the inner lining of tissues or vessels to provoke inflammation, thrombosis, and eventual fibrosis. This approach, known as sclerotherapy, is widely used to treat vascular and lymphatic abnormalities. Venous conditions such as varicose veins and spider veins, as well as hemorrhoids and certain lymphatic malformations, are common targets. Sclerosants work by irritating the endothelium, promoting occlusion and eventual reabsorption or fibrosis of the treated vessel.

Common sclerosants include polidocanol and sodium tetradecyl sulfate. Other agents such as hypertonic saline, ethanol, or phenol-based formulations may be used in specific circumstances, each with its own risk profile. The choice of agent depends on the treated lesion, the size of the vessel, and patient factors.

Sclerosing procedures carry risks, including localized pain, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, necrosis, allergies, or unintended occlusion of adjacent vessels. As with other interventions, indications, technique, and follow-up are guided by clinical guidelines and practitioner experience.

See also sclerosis; scleroderma (systemic sclerosis); sclerosing cholangitis; sclerotherapy.