Mottling is an evanescent, lacy, reticulated red and/or blue cutaneous vascular pattern covering most of the body surface in a newborn when exposed to low environmental temperatures. Mottling represents an accentuated physiologic vasomotor response that disappears with increasing age, although it is sometimes discernible even in older children.

Cutis marmorata telangiectasia congenita (see DDx ref 46 Cutis marmorata telangiectasia congenita) may appear similar, but is persistent and usually localized to a portion of the body.

Livedo reticularis (See DDx ref 47 Livedoreticularis & Periarteritis Nodosa) has a similar pattern, but is acquired, usually seen on the lower extremities and may be associated with systemic illness.