Other Skin Conditions: Moles, Birthmarks, Dryness, Etc. / Question
Published: September 30, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am 18 years old and have recently noticed my hands sometimes appear a gross greenish-blue color. My roommate and boyfriend agree that they look "dead." They do not feel cold to the touch. What could this be?
Signed: Greenish Blue Hands
Dear Greenish Blue Hands,
TeenHealthFX strongly encourages you to go and see a doctor, as TeenHealthFX cannot accurately diagnose your condition over the Internet. To really understand what is going on you need to be examined by a doctor as soon as possible. This would be the only way to accurately diagnose and make appropriate treatment recommendations if necessary.
If you do not have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971-6475.
Based upon your description, it may be possible that you have a condition called Raynaud phenomenon.
Raynaud phenomenon involves a color change of the hands: First the hands turn white because of constriction of the blood vessels in the hand, (called vasospasm), then blue secondary to cyanosis (not enough oxygen delivered to the tissue) and finally red because of reperfusion (blood vessels reopen) with subsequent swelling and pain. This phenomenon can occur in response to cold or stressful stimuli. In its most severe form, the vasospasm can cause serious complications. Raynaud may occur by itself or be a symptom of a more serious underlying disorder.
Again, as we cannot make a definite diagnosis without actually seeing your hands, please make an appointment with a doctor.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Nearly all the poison deaths in the 
