What does "telangiectasia" refer to?

Telangiectasia refers specifically to the presence of dilated blood vessels that are visible near the surface of the skin. This condition is often characterized by small, red or purple lines that can resemble spider veins and may occur due to a variety of factors such as genetics, aging, or prolonged sun exposure. They are generally not harmful but can be associated with conditions such as rosacea or other vascular disorders.

The other options describe different phenomena. Blocked blood vessels would not specifically relate to the visible dilation that telangiectasia describes. Inflammation of the skin typically involves redness, swelling, and discomfort, which is not a direct characteristic of telangiectasia. Skin discoloration from sun damage pertains to changes in pigmentation rather than vascular changes. Therefore, the defining characteristic of telangiectasia is its association with dilated blood vessels, making the selected answer accurate.