What does acrocyanosis mean?

Acrocyanosis (_ak-roh-sye-uh-NOH-sis_) is a condition that causes persistent bluish discoloration of the hands and, less often, the feet. The discoloration occurs due to prolonged constriction (narrowing) of the small blood vessels in the affected areas.

Acrocyanosis often occurs in both hands or both feet and may be present from birth or develop later in life. It usually causes no symptoms and doesn’t require treatment.

However, in some rare cases, acrocyanosis can indicate an underlying medical condition that needs to be treated.