Molecular signatures of varicosity: Diagnostic insights from ten biomarkers

Background: Varicose veins are a chronic vascular disorder influenced by factors such as inflammation, fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction, and vascular cell activation. This study evaluates the association between ten molecular biomarkers and these risk factors in patients with lower extremity varicosity to enhance understanding of the condition's pathophysiology and highlight potential diagnostic biomarkers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 126 patients diagnosed with lower extremity varicosity, confirmed by duplex ultrasound, and 108 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Serum levels of ten biomarkers C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1, transforming growth factor-beta 1, procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide, vascular endothelial growth factor, malondialdehyde, endothelin-1, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were quantified using ELISA. ROC curve analyses assessed the predictive value of these biomarkers. Results: Patients with varicosity displayed significantly elevated levels of all biomarkers compared to controls, with strong associations to varicosity risk (p < 0.0001). ROC curve analysis revealed high predictive values, with AUCs ranging from 0.858 to 0.939. Conclusion: The elevated biomarker levels suggest mechanisms including inflammation, fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction, and venous pressure in varicosity. Biomarker monitoring may support early diagnosis and management of varicose veins, enhancing patient outcomes. Future longitudinal studies are advised to further validate these associations.