Livedo reticularis When is it a concern - Mayo Clinic

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Livedo reticularis When is it a concern

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What causes livedo reticularis When should I see a doctor

Answer From Lawrence E. Gibson, M.D. Livedo reticularis is thought to be due to spasms of the blood vessels or a problem of the blood flow near the skin surface. It makes the skin look mottled in sort of a net pattern with clear borders. The condition most often shows up on the legs. Sometimes livedo reticularis is simply the result of being chilled. And it may occur as a side effect of certain medications. A rarer, related condition called livedo racemosa may be caused by a serious underlying condition.

When to see a doctor

The condition usually clears up without treatment. See your health care provider if: The discolored, mottled skin doesn't go away with warming You have discolored, mottled skin along with other symptoms that concern you Painful lumps develop in the affected skin Sores develop in the affected skin You also have a condition that affects the blood flow in your limbs Your skin symptoms are new and you have a connective tissue disease With Lawrence E. Gibson, M.D. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Review/update the information highlighted below and resubmit the form.

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ShareTweet June 08, 2022 Show references AskMayoExpert. Livedo reticularis and livedo racemosa. Mayo Clinic; 2021. Kang S, et al., eds. Cutaneous changes in arterial, venous, and lymphatic dysfunction. In Fitzpatrick's Dermatology. 9th ed. McGraw Hill; 2019. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed March 15, 2022. Gibson LE (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. March 29, 2022. See more Expert Answers

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Livedo reticularis When is it a concern? Mayo Clinic