Which term describes irregular or patchy discoloration of the skin which may be caused by hypoxemia, hypovolemia, or shock?

• A. Pallor
• B. Mottling
• C. Cyanosis
• D. Acrocyanosis

Answer: (B)

The irregular patchy skin discoloration described is mottling. In states of shock, poor perfusion causes uneven blood flow to the skin—the body shunts blood toward vital organs, and the small skin vessels constrict variably. This creates a marbled or mottled appearance, often in the trunk and limbs, and signals compromised microcirculation, which can accompany hypoxemia, hypovolemia, or overall shock in children, including during cardiac arrest scenarios.

Pallor is a generalized paleness from reduced blood flow or anemia, not the patchy pattern described. Cyanosis is a blue discoloration from low oxygenation, typically more uniform or central rather than patchy. Acrocyanosis is peripheral blue discoloration of the extremities, common in newborns, and not the irregular mottled pattern seen with shock.