We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are the Symptoms of Cutaneous Vasculitis?

By Meshell Powell
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 11,763
Share

Cutaneous vasculitis is a medical term used to describe a skin condition that is caused by blood vessel inflammation and that primarily affects the lower legs. Some of the most common symptoms of this disorder include the development of a rash, itching, and burning. Additional symptoms of cutaneous vasculitis may include bruising, hyperpigmentation, and skin ulcers. Arthritis, fever, and organ damage may occur if the skin disorder is part of a condition known as systemic vasculitis. A doctor should be consulted with any specific questions or concerns about the condition.

The rash associated with cutaneous vasculitis is often referred to as palpable purpura and is characterized by red or purple lesions that can be felt by the doctor upon examination. Urticaria, more commonly known as hives, causes raised red welts on the skin and is often the result of an allergic response to a food or environmental allergen. Itching is a frequently reported symptom of cutaneous vasculitis, and some people may also experience a painful burning sensation as a result of this disorder. Over the counter medication often provides sufficient relief from these symptoms, although prescription medication may sometimes become necessary.

Inflamed blood vessels, especially the small capillaries, may sometimes rupture or bleed underneath the skin, and this bleeding can lead to skin discoloration or bruising. While these symptoms are usually minor, extreme bruising should be reported to a doctor for further evaluation. Ulcers, or open sores, may sometimes develop and are usually caused by scratching due to intense itching. If left untreated, these lesions may become infected and require medical treatment such as topical or oral antibiotics. Over time, damage to the blood vessels may lead to a permanent darkening of the affected areas of skin, a symptom known as hyperpigmentation.

While cutaneous vasculitis can occur as an isolated condition, it is sometimes part of a larger disorder known as systemic vasculitis. In addition to the visible skin changes, symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and fever may occur. Widespread inflammation of the blood vessels can lead to significant organ damage, occasionally requiring surgical intervention. Any potential symptoms of cutaneous vasculitis should be discussed with a medical professional so that the proper tests can be performed to determine the extent of damage to the blood vessels. A dermatologist, or doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders, can create an individualized treatment plan based upon the specific needs of the patient.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Related Articles

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-symptoms-of-cutaneous-vasculitis.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.