Livedo reticularis (LR)

Livedo reticularis (LR) is a cutaneous physical sign characterized by a transient or persistent, blotchy, reddish-blue to purple, net-like cyanotic pattern. It is a benign disorder that predominantly affects middle-aged females. LR can be a primary condition, with no associated systemic disease, or secondary, where it is associated with systemic conditions.

Types of Livedo Reticularis

• Physiologic LR: This is a benign form, often seen in response to cold and typically resolves with warming.
• Primary LR: Idiopathic or without any systemic associations, it remains a physical sign without underlying systemic disease.
• Secondary LR: Associated with systemic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, infections, or malignancies. Most cases documented in the literature are secondary LR.
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Livedo Racemosa

Livedo racemosa (LRC) is a pathologic variant of LR, often linked to serious underlying conditions like antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. Unlike LR, LRC presents with a more irregular and broken pattern.

Clinical Features

LR appears as violaceous mottling of the skin with a "fishnet" or reticular appearance. The condition can be transient, resolving with temperature changes, or persistent, indicating a possible underlying systemic condition.