Cyanosis is a bluish-purple skin discoloration caused by a lack of oxygen. On the other hand, bluish-purple discoloration around the mouth and extremities, particularly the palms and soles, is called acrocyanosis. Acrocyanosis is usually considered normal in healthy newborns until there is no cyanosis in the central region of the body. Generally, acrocyanosis in newborns can happen due to benign vasomotor changes, which self-resolve during the first few days of life (1). However, the condition could develop due to other underlying issues as well. This post discusses everything you need to about acrocyanosis, including its symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options for babies.
Symptoms Of Acrocyanosis In Babies
Painless bluish discoloration of hands and feet is the most notable sign of the condition. The following signs and symptoms may also be seen in acrocyanosis (2) (3).
Affected areas may feel cold Bluish discoloration is symmetrically distributed Swelling in fingers Increased sweating in hands and feet Cyanosis may occur around the mouth Forearms, ears, lips, nose, or nipples may also be discolored in some cases
Causes Of Acrocyanosis In Babies
The causes of acrocyanosis depend on whether the acrocyanosis is primary or secondary (4).
1. Primary acrocyanosis
The exact cause of primary acrocyanosis is unknown. In newborns, a change in blood circulation could be the primary reason. Constriction of blood vessels that transport oxygen-rich blood to the limbs may lead to acrocyanosis.
2. Secondary acrocyanosis
Secondary acrocyanosis usually happens due to an underlying condition and might be accompanied by pain in the discolored areas. It may be seen along with central acrocyanosis. It may happen in conjunction with one of the following conditions.
Down syndrome Hypoxaemia Connective tissue diseases Neoplasms Peripheral vascular diseases Malnutrition Blood disorders Exposure to toxins Infections Mitochondrial diseases Ehlers-Danlos syndrome Buerger’s disease Spinal cord injury Atopic dermatitis
Is It Normal For Newborns To Have Acrocyanosis?
It is normal for most newborns to have acrocyanosis for 24 to 48 hours after birth. The reason is the new blood circulation pattern in the baby’s body. The blood and oxygen circulate to the vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, and kidneys, instead of hands and legs. Once the baby’s blood circulation adjusts itself, the acrocyanosis goes away. It might reappear when the baby is cold after a bath but goes away by itself soon.
Risk Factors For Acrocyanosis
The following risk factors may put the baby at a higher risk of developing acrocyanosis (2) (5).
Low body mass index (BMI) Sustained exposure to colder temperatures Presence of circulatory system-related problems that primarily affect blood vessels Girls are noted to have a slightly higher risk than boys
Diagnosis Of Acrocyanosis
Physical examination and a thorough medical history along with detailed symptom assessment are key contributors to the diagnosis of acrocyanosis. No pain with bluish discoloration is the main sign of acrocyanosis. If the doctors suspect secondary acrocyanosis, they will perform other tests and imaging.
Treatment For Acrocyanosis In Babies
In most cases, primary acrocyanosis does not need any treatment. Pharmacological intervention is not necessary most times. The baby should be kept warm to avoid acrocyanosis due to cold weather. Make sure to wrap the baby in a towel after a bath to prevent them from feeling cold. Treatment of secondary acrocyanosis depends on the underlying cause and the symptoms. Secondary acrocyanosis resolves when the underlying condition is treated. Some conditions, such as genetic problems, may require long-term management to avoid secondary acrocyanosis.
Outlook For Babies With Acrocyanosis
Primary acrocyanosis is usually a harmless condition. In newborn babies, it usually resolves on its own and does not recur in most cases. Secondary acrocyanosis must be thoroughly investigated by the doctor, and the underlying condition must be addressed.
