Idiopathic or primary livedo reticularis refers to a netlike pattern of reddish-blue skin discoloration, usually on the legs. The condition is linked to swollen blood vessels. It may get worse when the temperature is cold.

Idiopathic means the cause is unknown.

Treatment

If no underlyine disease can be treated, then pentoxifylline or low molecular weight heparin may help relieve the symptoms.

Alternative Names

Livedo reticularis; Primary livedo reticularis

Update Date: 5/13/2012

Reviewed by: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

Topics

• Skin Conditions
• Vascular Diseases

Images

Livedo reticularis - close-up

Livedo reticularis on the legs

Cholesterol emboli Livedo Reticularis - feet

Read More

• Hypothermia

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