The most benign reason. When exposed to cold, the small vessels near the skin’s surface constrict or spasm, causing the discoloration. It’s temporary and harmless.
2. Vascular Conditions
Any issue affecting the small blood vessels (also called capillaries or arterioles) can result in Livedo Reticularis. That includes conditions like:
- Peripheral artery disease
- Vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels)
- Cholesterol embolization syndrome (small blockages caused by cholesterol particles)
3. Autoimmune Disorders
- Lupus (SLE)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Antiphospholipid syndrome
These conditions often come with other signs—like fatigue, joint pain, or inflammation—so if the skin pattern is accompanied by those, it’s worth mentioning to your healthcare provider.
4. Blood Clotting Disorders
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