Warfarin therapy for livedoid vasculopathy associated with cryofibrinogenemia and hyperhomocysteinemia

BACKGROUND: Livedoid vasculopathy is an idiopathic, chronic disorder manifested by painful, purpuric macules on the lower extremities that superficially ulcerate, resulting in atrophic, stellate scars with peripheral telangiectasias and hyperpigmentation. OBSERVATIONS: A 50-year-old man presented with recurrent, painful ulcerations on the medial aspect of his malleoli and calves. The clinical presentation, histologic findings, and results of laboratory evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of livedoid vasculopathy in this case. Despite being refractory to treatment with multiple other medications, the lesions responded dramatically to oral warfarin sodium therapy. CONCLUSION: Treatment with warfarin may be a beneficial therapy for patients with livedoid vasculopathy.