Korean J Dermatol.  1999 Jun;37(6):804-806.

A Case of Livedo Reticularis Associated with Decompression Sickness

• Jeon YM
• Lee JB
• Song ES

Abstract

Livedo reticularis is a mottled bluish discoloration of the skin which occurs in a netlike pattern and is not a diagnosis in itself, but is a nonspecific reaction pattern. It may be classified as idiopathic and secondary livedo reticularis. Decompression sickness can occur during decompression after diving into deep sea water or during a rapiid ascent from sea level, and is one of the many causes of the secondary livedo reticularis. We report a case of livedo reticulris which developed in a patient with decompression sickness. A biopsy from the purpuric patch revealed an unusual histopathologic finding that resembles those of bullae and sweat gland necrosis in drug induced coma.

Keyword

Livedo reticularis; Decompression sickness

MeSH Terms

Biopsy
Coma
Decompression Sickness*
Decompression*
Diagnosis
Diving
Humans
Livedo Reticularis*
Necrosis
Seawater
Skin
Sweat Glands