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What Causes Red Staining Of The Skin On Ankle And Leg?

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Posted on Mon, 12 May 2014
Question: ive noticed that above my ankles on my leg around my sock area have been looking red instead of my usual white color. cant tell if its under the skin or above but thats the only place and it doesnt hurt. I was wondering what this could possibly be.
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Answered by Dr. Geetika Paul (58 minutes later)
Brief Answer: Benign skin condition Detailed Answer: Hi I understand your concern regarding your skin problem and I hope I am able to help you in the same . I have seen the attached picture. You seem to have developed pigmented purpuric dermatosis or schambergs disease. Now this is essentially a harmless skin condition which tends to develop in certain people. It is basically just a cosmetic disorder which looks bad but is otherwise not harmful. It is basically staining of the skin due to outpouring of red blood cells from the vessels . It is more common in people with jobs with prolonged standing . In case there is absolutely no itching or discomfort , then you can leave it on its own. But if there is any associated discomfort , then you can apply a topical moisturising lotion over it. It will usually remain only just above the ankle and will not rise further. Hope it helps Please ask if you need any further clarifications Dr Geetika Paul
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Geetika Paul

Dermatologist

Practicing since :2008

Answered : 2606 Questions

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What Causes Red Staining Of The Skin On Ankle And Leg?

Brief Answer: Benign skin condition Detailed Answer: Hi I understand your concern regarding your skin problem and I hope I am able to help you in the same . I have seen the attached picture. You seem to have developed pigmented purpuric dermatosis or schambergs disease. Now this is essentially a harmless skin condition which tends to develop in certain people. It is basically just a cosmetic disorder which looks bad but is otherwise not harmful. It is basically staining of the skin due to outpouring of red blood cells from the vessels . It is more common in people with jobs with prolonged standing . In case there is absolutely no itching or discomfort , then you can leave it on its own. But if there is any associated discomfort , then you can apply a topical moisturising lotion over it. It will usually remain only just above the ankle and will not rise further. Hope it helps Please ask if you need any further clarifications Dr Geetika Paul