What type of lesions are Janeway lesions?

Janeway lesions are characterized as painless, macular lesions that typically appear on the palms of the hands or the soles of the feet. They are associated with infective endocarditis, particularly in cases involving staphylococcal infection or during bacteremia. The presence of these lesions is significant in the clinical diagnosis as they indicate systemic embolic phenomena resulting from vegetations on the heart valves.

In distinguishing characteristics, Janeway lesions are different from other types of lesions associated with infective endocarditis, such as Osler nodes, which are tender and usually found on digits. Understanding the nature and appearance of Janeway lesions assists healthcare professionals in recognizing patterns that suggest underlying systemic infectious diseases.