Petechiae is a small skin stain, flat and round, caused by a small hemorrhage. It is not associated with pain or other hassles. Its color, initially reddish brown, tends over time to become yellow until the stain disappears completely.
At the base is an alteration of normal coagulation processes that are needed to cope with the rupture of capillaries. Often the stain appears on the face and associated with an alteration in blood pressure, caused for example by a cough. Their development can also be associated with trauma, a shortage of platelets or vitamin K, a bacterial infection, aging skin, circulation problems or diseases such as scurvy or childhood leukemia.
Sometimes petechiae are numerous and very close together. In these cases we can talk about plural.
What kind of diseases can be associated with petechiae?
The following diseases may be associated with petechiae:
- Cellulitis infectious
- Liver cirrhosis
- Dengue
- Ebola
- Infective endocarditis
- Leptospirosis
- Leukemia
- Molluscum
- Pre-eclampsia
- Rubella
- Infantile scurvy
- Septic shock
- Cushing's syndrome
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it would always be better to consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
What is the therapy for petechiae?
The best remedy depends on the underlying cause of petechiae. In case of scurvy, for example, you need to take vitamin C, while in other cases it may be useful intake of Vitamin E.
In case of Cushing's syndrome, however, you have to take drugs to reduce the synthesis of cortisol. Other therapies are best suited to cases where the petechiae is a sign of a lack of platelets. In these situations glucocorticoids, the immunoglobulin, the corticosteroids or immunosuppressants could be helpful. In the case of leukemia you will cancer treatments .
Only a doctor can determine whether these or other remedies are suitable for each specific case.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of petechiae?
The appearance of petechiae is not a medical emergency, but it is advisable to consult with an expert, because its presence might be a symptom of a more serious problem that requires specific treatment.
