Purple Patches On Legs, No Itching. Has High BP And Cholesterol. Am I Just Nervous?

Posted on Sat, 3 Dec 2011

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 3 Dec 2011 Answered on

Sat, 16 Jun 2012 Last reviewed on

Question : my husband has these circular redish purplish patches on his upper to lower legs. It started with one on his calf and didn't itch or hurt. I insisted he see a derm asap. I can't remember what she said it probably was, gave him a cream, wanted him to do a ton of labs..which he didn't. He is high blood pressure/high cholesterol and on meds, manages it poorly. I noticed in a matter of months this condition, cosmetic or not as spread all over both legs. Am I being a nervous wife? He is only 34 and I'm 30.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rakhi Tayal (1 hour later)

Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
The circular reddish purple patches all over the legs might be a dermatological problem like erythema or dermatitis but can be due to a systemic disorder like liver problem or platelet dysfunction.
Physical examination and investigations are mandatory to know the cause.
Since I do not have all the details and a privilege to examine your husband my assessment is severely limited.
It is not likely to be related to an STD or raised cholesterol.
I encourage you to consult a physician soon under whose guidance you can plan proper investigations and further management.
Hope this answers your query. I will be glad to answer the follow up queries that you have.
Please accept my answer in case you do not have further queries.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T