Purpura

Purpura is an affection of the skin characterized by the sudden appearance of reddish macules of varying size and on various parts of the body. In a short time they become purplish, the color not being removable by pressure. After they have existed a few days they undergo changes in color similar to those which follow a bruise.

The eruption may appear in either sex, at any age, and in almost any condition of general health; in those who are greatly enfeebled as well as in those in an apparently robust condition.

The eruption may cover the greater part of the surface, but more frequently is confined to the lower extremities.

A single purpuric outbreak may be the beginning and end of the trouble, or, as frequently happens, fresh crops may appear at regular or irregular intervals for a considerable period. The affection has been noticed in connection with suppressed menstruation, apparently taking the place of the natural flow. The foregoing features characterize purpura simplex, which, as a rule, is not a serious affection.


Sometimes, however, the haemorrhages are not confined to the cutaneous tissues, but may take place internally as well, and serious loss of blood may result from the rupture of superficial capillaries in the various mucous membranes, and especially those of the gastrointestinal tract. This form is termed purpura haemorrhagica.