Pulsating Varicose Veins in Functional Tricuspid Insufficiency

To the 19 previously reported cases of pulsating varicose veins of the legs in tricuspid insufficiency, another case is added. Simultaneous electrocardiographic and venous pressure tracings of a pulsating varicose vein were recorded. A single broad “v” wave with loss of a conspicuous “x” descent, characteristic of tricuspid insufficiency with atrial fibrillation, was noted. The clinical manifestations of tricuspid insufficiency disappeared as the patient's cardiac status improved, suggesting the functional nature of the insufficiency in this case.