According to Dr. Joseph Jorizzo, MD, Wake Forest University: “Your skin can be a window to your inner health.” In fact, the skin is not only a protective shield but also a powerful communicator of your body’s internal condition.

Unexpected changes on the skin can sometimes be an early warning sign that something more serious is happening inside the body. Recognizing these signals helps you detect risks early and seek appropriate medical care.

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Livedo Reticularis (LR) – Mottled, Net-like Skin

Livedo reticularis (LR), also known as mottled skin, is a type of skin discoloration that occurs when blood flow to the skin is interrupted. Research shows that LR is often a temporary, harmless condition caused by cold exposure or stress. However, in some cases, it may be linked to underlying health issues.

• Appearance: Purplish-red streaks forming net-like or lace patterns, usually on the arms and legs.

• Commonly seen in: Infants and women aged 20–50.

• Causes: Changes in blood flow near the skin’s surface, low oxygen levels in the blood, blood vessel spasms, or circulation disorders. It can also be a side effect of certain medications (especially amantadine, used to treat Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

This condition is often more visible in cold weather and fades when the skin warms up.

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Two Main Types of LR

1. Physiological (Primary) Livedo Reticularis:

• Harmless and temporary.

• Common in children, young adults, or people with fair skin.

• Usually disappears on its own when the body is kept warm.

2. Pathological (Secondary) Livedo Reticularis:

• More persistent and associated with underlying diseases.

• May occur with autoimmune diseases, vascular disorders, or blood clotting abnormalities.

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Related Medical Causes

According to Verywell Health, LR can be triggered by:

• Cold temperatures

• Septic shock

• Antiphospholipid syndrome

• Systemic lupus erythematosus

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Pancreatitis

• Thyroid disease

• End-of-life stage

In rarer cases, LR may signal serious systemic diseases such as:

• Sneddon’s syndrome (linked to stroke risk)

• Polyarteritis nodosa

• Cholesterol embolization

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Treatment and Prevention

• Primary LR: Usually requires no treatment; keeping the body warm is enough.

• Secondary LR: Requires treating the underlying condition. Doctors may prescribe:

  • Anticoagulants (to prevent blood clots)

  • Corticosteroids (to reduce inflammation)

  • Circulation-improving drugs

Lifestyle changes may also be recommended, such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol.

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⚠️ Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you notice unusual skin changes, consult a healthcare professional.