[Diagnosis and treatment of livedo reticularis on the legs]

Actas Dermosifiliogr. 2008 Oct;99(8):598-607.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

The term livedo reticularis refers to a reddish-violet reticular discoloration of the skin that mainly affects the limbs. It is caused by an interruption of blood flow in the dermal arteries, either due to spasm, inflammation, or vascular obstruction, and is associated with diseases of varying etiology and severity. To establish the cause of livedo reticularis, it is essential to determine its course (chronic, acute, or fulminant), the presence of other cutaneous signs such as nodules, retiform purpura or necrosis, and the possible association of general symptoms or laboratory findings that suggest a particular systemic process. The aim of this review is to describe the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Humans
  • Leg Dermatoses / diagnosis*
  • Leg Dermatoses / etiology
  • Leg Dermatoses / therapy*
  • Livedo Reticularis / diagnosis*
  • Livedo Reticularis / etiology
  • Livedo Reticularis / therapy*