Donald Trump’s mysterious mark has reappeared, new pictures have shown, with experts proposing a new theory as to what might have caused the unusual patch on his hand.
Eagle-eyed observers have noted over the last few months that the US President has a visible grey patch on his right hand, which mounting speculation has suggested is a bruise. The mark was first noticed in February during the 78-year-old’s meeting with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron, and has started fetching headlines again following its reappearance during another presidential event. An expert has suggested the mark may be the result of a medical intervention – or some kind of skin condition.
The mark was clearly visible on camera again today when Mr Trump joined personnel at a presentation ceremony for the Commander-in-Chief Trophy, given to the winners of the Military Academy American college football series. His hand was visible as he clutched the trophy and a gifted “Donald J Trump” commemorate American football.
Speaking to the Daily Star, Dr Gareth Nye, a lecturer in Biomedical Science at the University of Salford, said bruising becomes more common in older age, with Mr Trump’s reminiscient of bruising called by an intravenous therapy (IV) drip or skin condition caused by sun exposure.
He said: “Bruising is much more common as you age due to the thinning of skin and weakening of blood vessels. As we get older, bruising is seen even in minor bumps and there is often very little underlying to suggest a health concern.”
“This is more likely to be the case if a person is on blood thinning medication or has been exposed to a lot of sunlight. It may additionally be a completely benign condition called Actinic purpura which is also caused by excessive sun exposure.
“It does look similar to bruising which is left by IV drip insertion although there is no evidence of IV usage or need.” IV drips don’t necessarily indicate ill-health, as they can be used to deliver nutrients and types of fluids the body needs, although they can also be used to deliver medicines.
The Trump administration insists the Commander-in-Chief is a picture of health, with a recent report from the White House doctor stating he is in “excellent health”.
In a memo released by his doctor Captain Sean Barbabella following a battery of tests, including cardiac examination, ultrasounds and blood tests, the doctor concluded Mr Trump – the oldest person to take the office of President in US history – exhibited “robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and general physical function”.
The emergency physician and veteran added: “President Trump exhibits excellent cognitive and physical health and is fully fit to execute the duties of the Commander-in-Chief and Head of State.” Bizarrely, one passage of the memo even made a reference to Mr Trump’s frequent golfing, a hobby estimated to have cost US taxpayers $26 million.
Captain Barbarella said the President’s “joints and muscles have a full range of motion”, which he credited to his relatively active lifestyle, which he boasted include “frequent victories in golf events”.
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