Petechiae are small red spots caused by bleeding under the skin, often caused by a ruptured capillary blood vessel. They can be a symptom of serious conditions such as ITP, HUS, and leukemia, or a side effect of medication. Urgent medical attention is necessary to determine the cause and treatment.
A petechiae is a small, red, pinprick-like spot on the skin caused by bleeding just under the skin. Bleeding normally occurs due to a ruptured capillary blood vessel which, in most cases, will cause not just one petechiae, but numerous, and is referred to as petechiae or purpura. It can be caused by a number of conditions, some of them serious.
To distinguish between skin redness and petechiae, or petechiae, the skin should be pressed lightly with a finger. If the area does not lose its red color, it is petechiae, as opposed to skin redness, which will pale for a while. Petechiae are usually smooth to the touch, unlike other rashes, which can cause raised spots or blisters. Bruises, or ecchymoses, are usually due to deeper bleeding under the skin’s surface.
If you get petechiae, you need to see a doctor because some of the conditions that can cause them are potentially serious. Your doctor will then run tests to determine the cause and treat it, if needed. Petechiae can also be due to less serious conditions. They can occur in people with fragile veins, especially the elderly, where it is referred to as senile purpura, in which case no treatment is required other than attention and avoidance of trauma.
Some serious conditions that may have petechiae as a symptom include idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and leukemia. Some medications can also cause it as a side effect. ITP is a disorder that occurs when platelet levels drop, which interferes with the normal clotting process in the body. The cause of ITP is not known and treatment can consist of corticosteroids and immunoglobulins where necessary. ITP, especially if mild, often resolves on its own, especially in children.
HUS is a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed prematurely and block the kidneys. It can lead to severe kidney dysfunction. Again, in many cases the cause is unknown, but it can result from severe or prolonged diarrheal illness caused by E. coli. It can also be caused by some medications. Urgent diagnosis and treatment in the hospital is required. Treatment may include fluid replacement, blood transfusions, and dialysis.
Petechiae can also be caused by long-term treatment with medications, such as corticosteroids. This is because they weaken the connective tissue. It is very important that any case of petechiae or rash is urgently examined by a doctor to rule out any serious conditions.
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