GP Quiz 34 – Case 2
Make a diagnosis.
Senile purpura
What features distinguish this condition from the others?
Senile purpura describes the purple patches and persistent brown marks that arise from minor shear force in aging skin. It is due to loss of skin collagen, and is particularly prevalent on the arms and lower legs, especially those taking oral or inhaled corticosteroids. It is accompanied by other signs of skin fragility, such as stellate pseudoscars, atrophy and delayed wound healing.
This quiz was also published by New Zealand Doctor in January 2008.