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Cutis marmorata on the leg

Cutis marmorata on the leg

Overview

Cutis marmorata is a common phenomenon in newborn infants. It consists of alternating areas of dilated and constricted blood vessels, which gives the skin a red and white marbled appearance. It is most obvious when the skin is cool.

Review Date 11/6/2023

Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.