What are the causes of a livedo reticularis (livedo reticularis) rash on multiple extremities and trunk?

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Differential Diagnosis for Lacie Blanching Reticular Rash

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Livedo Reticularis: This condition is characterized by a mottled, reticular rash due to impaired blood flow, which can be caused by various factors such as cold temperatures, vasculitis, or thrombophilia. The description of a lacie blanching reticular rash on multiple extremities and trunk is highly suggestive of livedo reticularis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Vasculitis: Conditions like polyarteritis nodosa, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis can cause a reticular rash due to inflammation of blood vessels.
  • Thrombophilia: Hypercoagulable states, such as antiphospholipid syndrome, can lead to livedo reticularis and other skin manifestations.
  • Raynaud's Phenomenon: This condition causes blood vessels to constrict in response to cold or stress, leading to a reticular rash and other symptoms.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A hypercoagulable state that can cause livedo reticularis, as well as other serious complications like stroke or pulmonary embolism.
  • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): A life-threatening condition that can cause a reticular rash, as well as other symptoms like bleeding or thrombosis.
  • Sepsis: A severe infection that can cause a reticular rash, as well as other symptoms like fever, hypotension, or organ dysfunction.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Sneddon's Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by livedo reticularis and stroke-like symptoms.
  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A genetic disorder that can cause skin hyperextensibility, joint hypermobility, and other symptoms, including a reticular rash.
  • Cryoglobulinemia: A rare condition caused by abnormal proteins in the blood that can cause a reticular rash, as well as other symptoms like purpura or neuropathy.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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