2. Vascular “stars” (telangiectasias)
What they look like: small red or purple “webs” on ankles and feet.
Relationship to the liver: common in chronic diseases such as cirrhosis. They are due to alterations in hormone metabolism (especially estrogen) and increased pressure in the veins.
3. Change in skin color
What it looks like: yellowish tone (mild jaundice) or darker areas (hyperpigmentation), especially around the ankles.
Relationship to the liver: jaundice indicates problems in the breakdown and elimination of bilirubin; hyperpigmentation reflects metabolic alterations and melanin accumulation.
4. Itchy skin
How it feels: Constant, no rash, more frequent at night.
Relationship to the liver: May be one of the first signs of cholestasis (bile stagnation). Accumulated bile acids irritate nerve endings in the skin.
5. Redness of the feet (plantar erythema)
How it looks: Abnormally red and warm skin on the feet, especially at the base of the big toe and on the heel. Pressure momentarily makes the redness disappear.
Relationship to the liver: Like spider veins, it is related to excess estrogen and dilation of small blood vessels caused by portal hypertension.
