Painful, Tender, Localized, Idiopathic Livedo Reticularis

Abstract

Livedo reticularis (LR) is a unique cutaneous condition characterized by a reddish-blue to purple, net-like cyanosis of the skin, often associated with disturbances in cutaneous blood flow. This case report discusses a 30-year-old woman with a history of Hashimoto thyroiditis, vitamin D deficiency, migraines, and goiter who presents with painful, localized LR on her right flank. Despite her extensive medical history, there were no significant findings in her laboratory and imaging studies, including a normal epidermis in skin biopsies. The LR in this case is distinguished by its persistence and the presence of pain, a symptom not commonly associated with LR. Various treatments, including 5% lidocaine ointment, oral analgesics, and gabapentin, were considered, but her symptoms remained stable over 13 months. This case exemplifies the complexity of LR, particularly when presenting with atypical symptoms like pain. It highlights the need for further research into the pathophysiology and treatment of LR, especially in cases deviating from the typical symptomatology, and suggests the potential value of a multi-disciplinary approach to management.

Keywords: biopsy; idiopathic; livedo reticularis; skin; tender.

Figure 1. Clinical image of the right flank

Network-like, tender, painful, purplish vascular pattern localized to the right flank

Figure 2. Clinical image of the right flank

Biopsy sites of both involved (purplish vascular pattern) and uninvolved skin