What does mottled skin indicate in an infant?

Mottled skin in an infant is most commonly associated with cold stress. When an infant is exposed to low temperatures, their body struggles to maintain its core temperature, leading to peripheral vasoconstriction. This physiological response can cause uneven blood flow to the skin, resulting in a mottled appearance. The mottling often appears as a blotchy pattern, indicating that the infant's body is diverting blood from the skin's surface to vital organs in an attempt to preserve warmth.

In the context of newborns, maintaining an appropriate body temperature is critical, as they are particularly vulnerable to hypothermia. Recognizing mottled skin as a sign of cold stress is essential for caregivers to respond appropriately by warming the infant and monitoring for other symptoms that may indicate additional health issues.