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I Have Had A Livedo Reticularis Rash On My Inner
Question: I have had a livedo reticularis rash on my inner arm for the last few weeks. (Awaiting Dermatology appointment but diagnosed by GP). I am not unwell and the rash does not fade when warmed etc. It also seems to be getting bigger (and spreading further down my arm). Please can you advise on the conditions that can cause this rash and what could be causing it to spread quite rapidly?
Brief Answer:
Various underlying causes may be there
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.
I understand your concerns. This type of rash may be due to repeated friction, which is physiological.
However, if it doesn't resolve over time or increases, we need to think of underlying causes. These maybe various infections, connective tissue disorders, autoimmune disorders, blood coagulation disorders, drugs and even some malignancies.
Since you don't have any other symptoms, most probable diagnosis is benign livedo reticularis of unknown cause.
If it persists, the dermatologist would most likely advice a skin biopsy which would rule out vasculitis or blood coagulation, as these are seen in those with underlying disorders. A panel of investigations including blood counts, cryoproteins, antiphospholipid antibody, ANA, XXXXXXX may also be necessary.
But I still feel that benign cause is most likely in you.
Hope this helps.
Regards
Various underlying causes may be there
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.
I understand your concerns. This type of rash may be due to repeated friction, which is physiological.
However, if it doesn't resolve over time or increases, we need to think of underlying causes. These maybe various infections, connective tissue disorders, autoimmune disorders, blood coagulation disorders, drugs and even some malignancies.
Since you don't have any other symptoms, most probable diagnosis is benign livedo reticularis of unknown cause.
If it persists, the dermatologist would most likely advice a skin biopsy which would rule out vasculitis or blood coagulation, as these are seen in those with underlying disorders. A panel of investigations including blood counts, cryoproteins, antiphospholipid antibody, ANA, XXXXXXX may also be necessary.
But I still feel that benign cause is most likely in you.
Hope this helps.
Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
Thank you for your answer. It is the risk of haematological malignancies I am concerned about. Especially as due to the current coronavirus situation I will be waiting a few months for a referral.
In your opinion would these illnesses cause other symptoms as well as the rash?
In your opinion would these illnesses cause other symptoms as well as the rash?
Brief Answer:
Yes they have other symptoms
Detailed Answer:
Fatigue, fever, weight loss, enlarged glands, abnormal blood counts, at least some of these are present in hematological malignancies.
Hence these are unlikely in you.
Regards
Yes they have other symptoms
Detailed Answer:
Fatigue, fever, weight loss, enlarged glands, abnormal blood counts, at least some of these are present in hematological malignancies.
Hence these are unlikely in you.
Regards
Note: Do you have more questions on diagnosis or treatment of blood disorders? Ask An Expert/ Specialist Now
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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