Spider nevus is caused by dilatation of small arteries under the skin, which is mainly related to estrogen and may be a physiological phenomenon, so long spider nevus is not necessarily cirrhosis.
Spider nevus is related to estrogen metabolism. Adolescent girls and pregnant women will experience dilation of small arteries due to the increase of estrogen content, resulting in the formation of spider nevus, which is a normal manifestation.
When liver function declines, the inactivation of estrogen decreases, leading to an increase in the concentration of estrogen in the blood, thus causing dilation of the small arteries, which can also be manifested as spider nevi.
If men or elderly women suddenly develop spider nevi, they should be more alert. Spider nevus may also appear in patients with cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and chronic hepatitis combined with hepatic failure because of the dysfunction of the liver to inactivate estrogen.
If the spider nevus is caused by abnormal liver function, it is recommended to follow the doctor’s instructions for further examination, clarify the cause with the doctor’s help, and carry out targeted treatment or therapy.