A Hardened Vein (Phlebitis)
There is a hardened vein which is closed off due to phlebitis, or inflammation of the vein.
Phlebitis is very painful, but after it heals, there is a permanent hard non-tender lump where the vein used to be. This patient also has signs of high vein pressure due to vein reflux including skin staining and varicose and spider veins. This patient had several episodes of bleeding and the typical location is seen here at the ankle and arising from a small dark blue-black spider vein. Although a spider vein is small due to the very high pressure from the vein reflux (similar to blood pressure in the arm), they bleed dramatically.
If you see any similar signs on your own ankles and legs, it is likely you have a vein condition.
