livedo reticularis

[danielalfons]

how to cope up with livedo reticularis?

[danielalfons]

hello doc.
thanks for your comment, i am actually helping my sister find out what is her real problem regarding her skin conditions. we are really not sure if it is livedo reticularis, because sometimes she feels some burning sensation over her face which as you have said no symptoms for livedo reticularis.do you mind if i ask where is your office/clinic?

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Livedo reticularis refers to a condition in which dilation of capillary blood vessels causes mottled discoloration of the skin. It occurs mostly on the legs, arms and trunk and is more pronounced in cold weather. It can be a normal condition that causes no symptoms and needs no treatment. But it can also be associated with ceratain medications and serious underlying disseases, such as lupus, anti-phospholipid syndrome or Sneddon's syndrome.

There is no treatment for livedo reticularis. Rewarming the area or treatment of the underlying cause may reverse the discoloration. However, over time the vessels become permanently dilated and it may become permanent regardless of the surrounding temperature. It is important to discuss with your doctor the underlying cause for proper management. Support groups may also help in coping with this condition.

Take care and keep us posted.