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Idiopathic livedo reticularis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Livedo reticularis - close-up
Livedo reticularis - close-up
Livedo reticularis on the legs
Livedo reticularis on the legs
Cholesterol emboli Livedo Reticularis - feet
Cholesterol emboli Livedo Reticularis - feet

Alternative Names    Return to top

Livedo reticularis; Primary livedo reticularis

Definition    Return to top

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.

Update Date: 4/10/2009

Updated 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.

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