Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS)
The Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) is a widely used assessment tool in the evaluation of chronic venous disorders. It provides a standardized and objective way to measure the severity of venous disease and its impact on a patient’s quality of life. VCSS takes into account various clinical parameters, such as the presence of varicose veins, edema, skin changes, and ulceration, assigning a score to each parameter based on its severity. By summing up the individual scores, overall severity of the condition can be assessed and changes can be tracked over time, helping to guide appropriate treatment and management plans for patients with venous disorders.¹
(Terminology associated with varicose veins, CEAP classification and other publications can be seen by clicking on the link.)
| None = 0 | Mild = 1 | Moderate = 2 | Severe = 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pain | None | Occasional pain or other discomfort (not restricting regular daily activity) | Daily Pain or other discomfort (Interfering with but not preventing regular daily activity) | Daily pain or discomfort (limiting regular daily activity) |
| Varicose Vein | None | Few, Scattered (includes isolated branch varicosities or clusters) or corona phlebectatica | Confined to calf or thigh | Involves calf and thigh |
| Venous Odema | None | Limited to foot and ankle area | Extends above ankle but below knee | Extends to knee and above |
| Skin Pigmentation | None or Focal | Limited to perimalleolar area | Diffuse over lower third of calf | Wider distribution above lower third of calf |
| Inflammation (erythema, cellulitis, venous eczema, dermatittis) | None | Limited to perimalleolar area | Diffuse over lower third of calf | Wider distribution above lower third of calf |
| Induration | None | Limited to perimalleolar area | Diffuse over lower third of calf | Wider distribution above lower third of calf |
| No. of active ulcers | 0 | 1 | 2 | ≥3 |
| Active Ulcer duration (longest active) | None | < 3months | > 3 months but < 1 year | Not healed for > 1 year |
| Active Ulcer Size (diameter of largest active) | None | < 2 cm | 2 - 6 cm | > 6 cm |
| Use of compression therapy | None | Intermittent | Most Days | Full compliance |