Overview
- Fresh images from August 22–25 show a dark mark on the back of President Trump’s right hand, following earlier photos that appeared to show light-colored foundation on the area.
- Press secretary Karoline Leavitt and White House physician Capt. Sean Barbabella say the bruising reflects minor soft-tissue irritation from frequent handshakes and routine aspirin use.
- In July, officials disclosed a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency after ankle swelling, with physician notes reporting no evidence of deep vein thrombosis or arterial disease and normal cardiac results.
- The administration has not committed to extended media availability for the physician, and viral posts and memes continue to amplify skepticism about the images and the official explanation.
- Some medical commentators have suggested alternatives such as IV sites, but no publicly released tests contradict the White House findings, and an April physical described the president as in excellent health.