Mottled skin is a bluish-red, lacy, or net-like appearance you see underneath the skin.
Also calledlivedo reticularis, it is often harmless.
Some people have mottled skin after cold exposure, or even tobacco use.
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The primary jot down is most often seen in females between the ages of 20 and 50.
Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about mottled skin.
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What It Looks Like
The only symptom of mottled skin is its appearance.
Beneath the top layer of skin, discoloration occurs in a net- or lace-like pattern.
The pattern is often reddish blue or purplish in appearance.
It may look more brown in people with darker skin tones.
The area most often affected is the legs.
In some cases, infants experience livedo reticularis.
The two main types of mottled skin are primary and secondary.
Primary mottled skin typically arises due to non-severe bodily changes, including cold exposure.
Secondary is associated with medical diseases, including congenital (at-birth) cases.
Causes
Mottled skin has various causes.
It develops when blood flow to the skin is interrupted or blocked in some way.
The underlying causes depend on whether a person is experiencing primary or secondary mottled skin.
Primary is typically sparked by cold exposure.
Medical Conditions
Mottled skin occurs with a wide range of health conditions that affect blood flow.
Mottled skin that’s secondary to another cause is calledlivedo racemosa.
The symptom often affects older adults.
It’s also been noted in people who received a COVID vaccine.More research is needed to understand the effects.
Medications
Some medications may cause issues with blood flow within the body, leading to mottled skin.
The two most notable medications are amantadine and interferon.
A healthcare provider can ensure youre not leaving a health condition untreated.
Diagnosis
Testing for mottled skin may be complicated because of various underlying causes.
For that reason, the diagnosis of the symptom is based on its appearance alone.
This helps to determine what other tests are required based on any other health disorders suspected.
Some people experience mottled skin as anend-of-life changein their skin.
This occurs due to the decreased blood flow to the skin surface.
It is considered a normal part of dying.
Treatment
The treatment for mottled skin depends on the cause.
Stress also can lead to symptoms.
Contact a healthcare provider if you notice mottled skin developing on your legs or anywhere else on your body.
They will be able to determine the cause and start treatment if need be.
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The Primary Care Dermatology Society.Livedo reticularis and livedoid vasculopathy.
2021 Jan;82:61-76. doi:10.1016/j.parkreldis.2020.11.017
Hospital for Special Surgery.Antiphospholipid Syndrome and Skin Problems Top 10 Series.
Connecticut Hospice.Skin Changes at the End of Life.
