Acrocyanosis

What is it?

Acrocyanosis is a disorder that affects the skin on feet, specifically the toes and ankles. It is caused by the constriction of tiny arteries toward the end of the legs. The arteries carry oxygen and nutrients through the blood to the skin on feet. Acrocyanosis causes these arteries to spasm, which blocks the flow of blood. Skin is unable to receive the necessary amount of oxygen, which causes the skin to turn a blue, purple or red color.

What are the symptoms?

Typically, feet will be persistently cold and be blue in color. Feet can also be sweaty and can swell. There is rarely pain associated with Acrocyanosis. The disorder gets worse when exposed to the cold and improves when feet warm up.

What is the treatment?

Treatment can be as simple as keeping feet warm and dry. Acrocyanosis affects more women than men, but is not a common disorder. If you notice any discoloration in your feet, it is important to see a medical professional.

Image by William Warby. Michael's Feet. (2009). Flickr.