Petechiae and purpura are two different conditions that can cause red or purple spots on the skin. They are both caused by bleeding but have different causes and symptoms. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between petechiae and purpura and their causes and treatment options.
Let’s get started.
An Overview of Petechiae
Petechiae are small, red or purple spots that occur when blood vessels burst and bleed under the skin. Several different things, including: can cause petechiae
- A high fever
- Sudden changes in temperature
- Excessive coughing or sneezing
- Long periods of standing or sitting
- Straining during a bowel movement
- Injury to the skin
- Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or aspirin
- An autoimmune disorder, such as lupus erythematosus or Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP)
Symptoms of petechiae include:
- Red or purple spots on the skin -Spots that range in size from a pinpoint to about ½ inch
- Spots that appear on the arms, legs, stomach, and other parts of the body
- Spots that do not blanch when pressed (blanching is when the spot turns white when pressure is applied)
- Spots that are flat and do not raise above the surface of the skin
An Overview of Purpura
Purpura is a condition that results in purple spots on the skin. These spots are caused by bleeding under the skin and can range in size from small dots to large patches. Purpura can be benign or life-threatening, depending on the underlying cause.
Purpura occurs when blood vessels break and leak blood into the surrounding tissue. The bleeding causes the formation of purple spots on the skin that can range in size from small dots to large patches. Purpura can be benign or life-threatening, depending on the underlying cause.
Purpura can be caused by various conditions, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and medications. Treatment for purpura depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, no treatment is necessary. In other cases, treatment may involve antibiotics or immunosuppressive drugs. AskApollo is a health library where you can find more information about such conditions and their treatment options available.
Difference between Petechiae and Purpura
Petechiae are small spots, while purpura are larger patches. Petechiae are caused by bleeding under the skin, but purpura can be caused by several things, including infections, medications, and certain diseases. Petechiae are much more common than purpura. The risk of developing either increases with age. Treatment for petechiae and purpura is typically unnecessary but may be required in some cases.
Treatment for Petechiae
There is no specific treatment for petechiae. If the underlying cause is an infection, it will be treated accordingly. Treatment will focus on increasing the platelet count if the cause is a low platelet count. In some cases, petechiae may resolve on its own without any treatment.
However, it’s essential to see a doctor determine the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment. Delaying medical care can result in serious complications, such as organ damage or stroke.
Treatment for Purpura
There are many treatments available for purpura. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the condition.
In some cases, the purpura may resolve on its own without treatment. However, if an underlying medical condition causes the condition, treatment will be necessary to manage the underlying condition. Treatment options for purpura include:
- Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications that can be taken orally or injected directly into the affected area. Corticosteroids can help to reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of purpura.
- Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants are medications that suppress the immune system. These medications can be taken orally or injected directly into the affected area. Immunosuppressants can help to reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of purpura.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed if an infection causes purpura. Antibiotics can help to clear the infection and improve the appearance of purpura.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged blood vessels or to repair damaged tissue. Surgery can also help to improve the appearance of purpura.
If you are experiencing purpura, it is crucial to see a doctor so that the underlying cause can be diagnosed and treated appropriately. Treatment for purpura can help to improve the condition and the appearance of the skin.
The Bottom Line
Petechiae and purpura are two different types of skin conditions. Petechiae are small, red or purple spots that occur when tiny blood vessels called capillaries rupture and bleed into the skin. Purpura are larger, flat areas of bleeding that occur when larger blood vessels rupture. Many different underlying medical conditions can cause both petechiae and purpura. Treatment for petechiae and purpura will depend on the condition’s underlying cause.
In some cases, petechiae and purpura may resolve independently without treatment. However, if an underlying medical condition causes the condition, treatment will be necessary to manage the underlying condition. If you are experiencing purpura, it is essential to see a doctor so that the underlying cause can be diagnosed and treated appropriately. Treatment for purpura can help to improve the condition and the appearance of the skin.