Livedo reticularis is a common vascular condition characterized by a net-like reddish-blue discoloration of the skin, which is often seen during winter. This is commonly seen on arms, legs, hands and feet and on few occasions on trunk.
Livedo reticularis is thought to cause due to some abnormality of local blood circulation. This can arise due to several reasons. While, in most of the cases it may be harmless, but sometimes it can arise due to serious underlying systemic disorders as lupus erythematosus. Livedo reticularis occurs in both men and women but women are affected more then men.
Other conditions that are linked to Livedo reticularis are:
- Antiphospholipid syndrome
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
- Polyarteritis nodosa
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Dermatomyositis
- Livedoid vasculitis
- Cryoglobulinaemia
- Arteriosclerosis and homocystinuria
- Thrombocythaemia or polycythaemia rubra Vera
- Tuberculosis and syphilis infection
- Hypercalcaemia
- Lymphoma
- Pancreatitis
- Side effect of hydroxyurea
Treatment of Livedo reticularis
While, there is no specific treatment for Livedo reticularis, treatment is mainly focussed on rewarming the area and treating the underlying causes if known. Regular exercise may also be the best option as it increases circulation throughout the body.
Livedo Reticularis…
Livedo reticularis is a common vascular condition characterized by a net-like reddish-blue discoloration of the skin, which is often seen during winter….