Purpura are bruise-like purple spots on the skin ormucous membranes(such as inside the mouth).
Purpuric rashes are a symptom, not a condition.
This article will discuss purpuric rash symptoms and causes.
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It will also cover treatment options and when to see a healthcare provider.
Below is an overview of how purpuric rashes develop.
This onset will vary greatly based on the underlying cause.
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Viral infections like chickenpox cause a common key in of purpuric rash.
This is called anacute thrombocytopenic purpura.
It is usually a very sudden onset of symptoms and resolves in a few weeks to six months.
Reproduced with permission from ©DermNet New Zealand and © Raimo Suhonenwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Appearance and Shape
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Reproduced with permission from DermNet New Zealand and Raimo Suhonenwww.dermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from DermNet and Te Whatu Oradermnetnz.org2023.
Reproduced with permission from © DermNet and © Te Whatu Oradermnetnz.org2023.
Purpura appears red to purple and does notblanch(turn white) when pressed.
A purpuric rash will remain flat against the skin (not raised) and can develop into any shape.
Sensations
A purpuric rash will not itch.
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It may be tender or slightly painful due to the blood accumulation under the skin.
Depending on the underlying illness or injury, there may be other sensations as well.
Causes of Purpuric Rash
Numerous conditions can cause a purpuric rash.
Most conditions fall under two categories: non-thrombocytopenic and thrombocytopenic purpura.
“Thrombocytopenic” is a medical term that means “lowplateletcount.”
Platelets are a punch in of blood cell that forms blood clots.
In non-thrombocytopenic purpuric rashes, the person has a normal platelet count.
These conditions can make abnormal antibodies against platelet proteins.
A healthcare provider will then work to determine the underlying cause of the rash.
If an infection is suspected, specific testing may be used to make that diagnosis.
Treatment, Management, and Self-Care
Treatment options for purpuric rashes are based on the underlying cause.
Senile purpura typically does not need treatment.
Those with it might use extra sun protection (sunscreen or long sleeves) to protect their skin.
Amyloidosis treatment varies, but can include chemotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, or medications.
Medications that are causing purpuric rashes may be changed or stopped at the recommendation of a healthcare provider.
If the rash spots are aesthetically concerning, they may be covered up with clothes or makeup.
Purpuric Rash Relapse
Underlying illness or injury is typically the cause of a purpuric rash.
The rash generally heals and resolves when the cause is treated.
However, about 1 out of 3 people with Henoch-Schonlein purpura will have recurrent episodes.
They tend to be less severe but last longer.
The rash is a symptom of an underlying cause.
The cause can be something mild like senile purpura or a serious health condition like meningococcemia.
Whatever the cause, it’s best to have it evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Other symptoms can accompany a purpuric rash.
Summary
A purpuric rash is a symptom of an underlying condition or cause.
It is characterized by small, red, or purple bruise-like spots on the skin.
They can appear almost anywhere and are often found on the arms and legs.
Always have purpuric rashes evaluated and treated by a healthcare provider.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.Idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP) causes, symptoms, and treatment.
The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne.Petechiae and purpura.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Thrombocytopenia.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Meningococcal disease diagnosis and treatment.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.Henoch-Scholein purpura.
