Livedo: a violaceous skin network

Livedo is a net-like skin discolouration related to cutaneous circulation. It may be transient or associated with an underlying disorder.

Assess extent, symmetry and continuity of the network. Ask about cold exposure and reassess after warming; examine other areas.

Reddish-purple lines outline pale areas, with several incomplete loops. No obvious necrosis or ulceration is visible within the displayed field.

Cold-related vasospasm may be benign. Persistent, extensive or symptomatic changes warrant assessment for vasculopathy, vasculitis or medication effects.

Compare with heat-induced erythema and retiform purpura. Livedo racemosa typically has larger irregular, interrupted loops.

Assess pain, ulcers, peripheral pulses and neurological symptoms. A thrombotic or obstetric history may guide further investigation.

A new neurological deficit, a painful cold limb or necrosis requires urgent assessment; do not dismiss these as simple mottling.

This image establishes neither antiphospholipid syndrome nor vasculitis. Time course and clinical examination distinguish different mechanisms.

Identify the network, establish persistence and look for vascular or systemic features that change the next steps.

• DermNet — Livedo reticularis ↗
• డా. గన్నవరపు నరసింహమూర్తి — document iconographique original / original image ↗

Documentary review: 2026-10-16