Purpura

Any of a group of disorders characterized by purplish or reddishbrown areas or spots of discoloration, caused by bleeding within skin or mucous membranes. Purpura also refers to the discoloured areas themselves. There are many different types and causes of purpura. Common (senile) purpura mostly affects middle-aged or elderly women. Large discoloured areas, caused by thinning of the tissues supporting blood vessels under the skin, appear on the thighs or the back of the hands and forearms. Henoch–Schönlein purpura is caused by inflammation of blood vessels beneath the skin. Purpura can also occur as a result of thrombocytopenia. In addition, it can be associated with septicaemia and can be seen with meningitis (see glass test).