DermNet provides Google Translate, a free machine translation service. Note that this may not provide an exact translation in all languages
Home Topics A–Z Purpura
Author: Vanessa Ngan, Staff Writer, 2005. Updated by Hon A/Prof Amanda Oakley, November 2015.
We would love your feedback. Fill out our anonymous user survey.
Purpura is the name given to the discolouration of the skin or mucous membranes due to haemorrhage from small blood vessels.
Extravasated blood usually breaks down and changes colour over a few weeks from purple, orange, brown and even blue and green.
There are many different types of purpura. Their classification depends on the appearance or cause of the condition.
Platelet disorders | Thrombocytopaenic purpura—due to destruction of platelets
|
Other coagulation disorders |
|
Vascular disorders | Non-thrombocytopaenic purpura—leakage of blood through the vessel wall
|
The signs and symptoms of purpura vary according to the type of purpura. The following broad generalisations may be made.
Purpura
The underlying cause of purpura should be identified and treated accordingly.
Books about skin diseases
© 2022 DermNet New Zealand Trust.
DermNet NZ does not provide an online consultation service. If you have any concerns with your skin or its treatment, see a dermatologist for advice.