Capillarectasia

/ˌkæpɪlərɛkˈteɪʒə/ noun

Definition

A medical condition involving abnormal enlargement or dilation of capillaries (tiny blood vessels).

Etymology

From Latin capillaris 'hair-like' (referring to capillaries) plus Greek ektasis 'stretching or dilation.' The Greek element -ectasia is a standard medical suffix for abnormal expansion of organs or vessels.

Kelly Says

Capillarectasia can cause visible spider-like veins on the skin—it's literally what happens when the tiniest blood vessels get stretched out and enlarged, visible as red or purple lines!

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