Symptoms of purpura include purple or red spots on the skin or mucous membranes caused by bleeding underneath. It is essential to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of purpura in order to properly manage and prevent complications. These spots can vary in size and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
Causes
In addition to factors that affect blood clotting or blood vessel integrity, purpura can also be caused by:
-
There are several types of platelet disorders, such as thrombocytopenia and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), which result in low platelet counts and a tendency to bleed.
-
Disorders of blood vessels, such as vasculitis and Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP).
-
Disorders of blood clotting, such as hemophilia or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
-
Bleeding and purpura can be caused by certain medications or medical treatments, such as anticoagulants or chemotherapy.
Symptoms
Purpura symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition, but common ones include:
-
Spots on the skin, mucous membranes, or internal organs that are purple or red.
-
Even minor injuries or trauma can result in easy bruising or bleeding.
-
Bleeding under the skin causes petechiae, which are small, pinpoint spots.
-
Discoloration in the form of large, bruise-like patches known as ecchymosis.
Diagnosis
Purpura is typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, such as:
-
A complete blood count (CBC) determines the number of platelets and other blood cells in the body.
-
Tests to measure blood clotting function, such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).
-
Assessment of liver and kidney function and screening for underlying medical conditions with blood tests.
-
A skin biopsy may be performed to evaluate blood vessel changes in cases of suspected vasculitis or other skin conditions.
Treatment
Purpura treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
-
Medications that reduce inflammation, suppress immune responses, or prevent blood clots, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or anticoagulants.
-
A severe thrombocytopenia or coagulation disorder may require platelet transfusions or other blood products.
-
Treatment of underlying medical conditions or discontinuation of medications contributing to purpura.
-
In order to reduce bleeding and swelling, supportive measures should be taken, such as rest, elevation of affected limbs, and compression therapy.
Prevention
Purpura can be prevented by managing underlying health conditions and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as:
-
Blood clotting disorders patients should avoid activities that increase their risk of injury or bleeding.
-
Treating platelet disorders or coagulation disorders according to prescribed treatment regimens.
-
Individuals at risk of developing purpura should receive regular medical monitoring and screening.
-
If possible, avoid medications or substances that increase the risk of bleeding or purpura.
