# A case report and literature review of livedoid vasculopathy in children

## TL;DR

This paper presents a case of a child with a rare skin condition called livedoid vasculopathy and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

## Contribution

The paper contributes a pediatric case report of livedoid vasculopathy with histopathological confirmation and treatment response to rivaroxaban.

## Key findings

- The patient's symptoms and biopsy results were consistent with a diagnosis of livedoid vasculopathy.
- Treatment with rivaroxaban led to improvement in pain, supporting its potential role in managing the condition.
- Skin biopsy remains essential for confirming the diagnosis of livedoid vasculopathy.

## Abstract

Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) is a rare, non-inflammatory, intradermal vascular obstructive skin disorder characterized by purpuric papules and plaques with capillary dilation. These lesions typically progress to crusted ulcers and ultimately result in fixed, white, atrophic stellate scars. The condition is marked by painful ulcers that heal slowly and have a tendency to recur.

We report a case of a pediatric patient presenting with recurrent rashes and pain in both lower extremities. Physical examination revealed purpuric plaques with ulceration, scarring, and white atrophic healing features. Histopathological examination demonstrated intradermal thrombosis, vessel wall necrosis, and surrounding inflammatory cell infiltration with erythrocyte extravasation. Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining was positive. The clinical and pathological findings were consistent with a diagnosis of LV. The patient was treated with oral rivaroxaban.

This case highlights the critical importance of early recognition and intervention in the management of LV. Clinicians should consider LV in the differential diagnosis when encountering patients with painful purpuric rashes. Improvement in pain following treatment with anticoagulants, such as rivaroxaban, may indirectly support the diagnosis. A skin biopsy is essential for definitive diagnosis.