Which hormonal state is spider telangiectasia associated with?

Which hormonal state is spider telangiectasia associated with?

• A. Progesterone
• B. Estrogen
• C. Testosterone
• D. Growth hormone

Answer: (B)

Spider telangiectasias arise from dilation of superficial cutaneous capillaries driven by estrogen-mediated vasodilation. They appear as small central red dots with radiating, spider-like vessels and blanch with pressure because the vessels are superficial. The hormonal state most closely linked is elevated estrogen levels—seen in pregnancy, with estrogen-containing contraception or hormone therapy, and in liver disease where estrogen clearance is reduced. Other hormones don’t have this classic association, so estrogen excess best explains the finding.

Spider telangiectasias arise from dilation of superficial cutaneous capillaries driven by estrogen-mediated vasodilation. They appear as small central red dots with radiating, spider-like vessels and blanch with pressure because the vessels are superficial. The hormonal state most closely linked is elevated estrogen levels—seen in pregnancy, with estrogen-containing contraception or hormone therapy, and in liver disease where estrogen clearance is reduced. Other hormones don’t have this classic association, so estrogen excess best explains the finding.