Types of livedo reticularis
The three main types are: Physiologic: This temporary, harmless condition — also called cutis marmorata — is due to cold exposure. It goes away when your skin warms up. Mottled skin when cold typically affects infants, children and young women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) with lighter skin. Primary livedo reticularis: This type of mottled skin occurs when blood vessels just below your skin’s surface suddenly constrict for unknown reasons. It’s temporary and unrelated to temperature changes. Primary livedo reticularis is diagnosed when underlying conditions have been ruled out. Secondary livedo reticularis: Skin mottling occurs as a complication of underlying medical conditions. These include vascular disease, neurological disorders, certain cancers and infections. Secondary livedo reticularis is persistent, meaning that it doesn’t go away until the underlying condition is diagnosed and treated.
