Purpura

Purpura

Purpura (pronounced: pur-pu-ra) is a condition characterized by the appearance of purple-colored spots on the skin or mucous membranes caused by small amounts of bleeding under the skin.

Etymology

The term 'Purpura' is derived from the Latin word 'purpura', meaning 'purple'.

Definition

Purpura refers to the appearance of red or purple discolorations on the skin that do not blanch on applying pressure. The spots are caused by bleeding underneath the skin. Purpura can occur in all age groups, but it is particularly common in the elderly due to the fragility of their skin.

Types of Purpura

There are two main types of purpura: Thrombocytopenic Purpura and Non-thrombocytopenic Purpura. Thrombocytopenic purpura is caused by a low platelet count, while non-thrombocytopenic purpura is caused by blood vessel inflammation or other causes that do not involve a low platelet count.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of purpura is the appearance of red or purple spots on the skin or mucous membranes. These spots, known as petechiae, are typically 0.5–1 cm in diameter. Larger spots, known as ecchymoses, may also appear. Other symptoms may include joint pain, abdominal pain, weakness, or other signs of systemic illness.

Causes

Purpura can be caused by a variety of conditions, including platelet disorders, coagulation disorders, vasculitis, and certain medications. It can also be a sign of serious illnesses such as leukemia or sepsis.

Treatment

Treatment of purpura depends on the underlying cause. It may involve stopping a medication, treating an infection, or addressing a blood or immune disorder. In some cases, no treatment is necessary and the purpura will resolve on its own.

Related Terms

• Petechiae
• Ecchymoses
• Thrombocytopenic Purpura
• Non-thrombocytopenic Purpura
• Vasculitis
• Platelet disorders
• Coagulation disorders
• Leukemia
• Sepsis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Purpura
• Wikipedia's article - Purpura

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