According to dermatologist Dr. Joseph Jorizzofrom Wake Forest University, “your skin can be a window to your underlying health.” The skin is more than just a protective barrier—it can reveal early signs of internal health problems.
Unexpected skin changes may be the body’s first warning of something serious, and recognizing these signs can help with early diagnosis and treatment. One such condition is livedo reticularis (LR), also known as mottled skin.
LR appears as a purplish, net-like discoloration, often on the arms or legs. It usually occurs when blood flow to the skin is interrupted. While often harmless and temporary, it can sometimes indicate an underlying medical condition.
The condition commonly affects babies and women between 20 and 50. It becomes more noticeable in cold weather and may fade when the skin warms. Causes include low oxygen levels, blood vessel spasms, or certain medications—particularly amantadine, used to treat Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
There are two main forms: Physiological (Primary) LR, a benign and temporary response to cold, and Pathological (Secondary) LR, which is more persistent and linked to conditions such as autoimmune diseases, vascular disorders, or blood clotting issues.
According to Verywell Health, LR can be triggered by cold exposure, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, pancreatitis, certain medications, or even severe infections like septic shock. It may also appear in people nearing the end of life.
In rare cases, LR signals serious illnesses such as Sneddon’s syndrome, polyarteritis nodosa, or cholesterol embolization, which require prompt medical attention.
For primary LR, treatment is usually unnecessary and symptoms fade with warmth. Secondary LR may require anticoagulants, corticosteroids, or circulation-improving drugs, along with lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, exercising, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol.