Purpura is a condition characterized by red or purple spots on the skin that do not blanch when pressure is applied. These spots result from bleeding beneath the skin and may be secondary to platelet disorders, vascular disorders, coagulation disorders, or other causes.
○ Treatment Most purpura resolve within about 7 days. If purpura recur without an obvious cause, individuals should see a doctor and undergo blood tests to evaluate for clotting disorders.
Actinic purpura results from the extravasation of blood into the dermis. This phenomenon is due to the skin atrophy and fragility of the blood vessels in elderly individuals, which is exacerbated by chronic sun exposure.
○ Treatment
Most purpura resolve within about 7 days. If purpura recur without an obvious cause, individuals should see a doctor and undergo blood tests to evaluate for clotting disorders.