MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Idiopathic or primary livedo reticularis

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Idiopathic or primary livedo reticularis

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names	Definition

Illustrations

Livedo reticularis - close-up

Livedo reticularis on the legs

Cholesterol emboli Livedo Reticularis - feet

Alternative Names Return to top

Livedo reticularis

Definition Return to top

Idiopathic or primary livedo reticularis refers to blue splotchy patches of skin, usually on the legs. The condition is linked to swollen blood vessels. It may get worse when the temperature is cold.

Update Date: 4/16/2007

Updated by: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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