Petechia

Petechia

Petechia (pronunciation: /pɪˈtiːkiə/) is a small (1-2mm) red or purple spot on the body, caused by a minor bleed from broken capillary blood vessels.

Etymology

The term "petechia" originates from the Italian word petecchia, meaning "freckle". This term was first used in medical texts in the late 16th century.

Definition

A Petechia is a small, round, flat spot that appears on the skin or mucous membrane. It is typically red or purple in color and is less than 3 mm in diameter. Petechiae are caused by minor bleeding from broken capillary blood vessels.

Causes

Petechiae can be caused by a variety of conditions, including infections, inflammation, trauma, and certain medications. They can also be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as a blood clotting disorder or leukemia.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of petechiae is the appearance of small red or purple spots on the skin or mucous membranes. These spots do not blanch (turn white) when pressure is applied. Other symptoms may be present depending on the underlying cause of the petechiae.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of petechiae typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Additional tests, such as blood tests, may be needed to determine the underlying cause of the petechiae.

Treatment

Treatment for petechiae depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. In other cases, treatment may involve medications or other interventions to address the underlying condition.

Related Terms

• Purpura: A condition characterized by larger purple spots or patches caused by bleeding under the skin.
• Ecchymosis: A discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding underneath, typically caused by bruising.
• Thrombocytopenia: A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood, which can lead to increased bleeding and bruising, including petechiae.

External links

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

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