What are Petechiae?

Petechiae are small red or purple spots that typically appear on the skin, but can occur in mucous membranes and organs as well. Petechiae are caused by superficial capillary bleeding and often appear around the eyes, on the face, and/or on the lower extremities. Petechiae are very common and can range from being a benign and harmless condition to being an indication of a more serious medical condition.

Symptoms of Petechiae

The most common symptom of petechiae is the appearance of small red or purple spots on the skin, typically around the eyes and on the lower extremities. Other symptoms can include a fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general fatigue. Petechiae is usually not accompanied by any other skin changes like itching or blistering.

Causes of Petechiae

Petechiae can be caused by a variety of conditions and physicians often use the appearance of petechiae as a way to diagnose a specific medical condition. Petechiae can be caused by infections, such as viral or bacterial infections, trauma to the affected area, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications. In some circumstances, petechiae can occur as a result of systemic inflammation, or even from pushing too hard during exercise or physical activities.

In most cases, petechiae is a benign and harmless condition. Petechiae is rarely a cause of serious concern, however, if it is accompanied by any other symptoms, such as fever or swollen lymph nodes, then it is important to seek medical attention. The underlying cause must be determined in order to effectively treat the condition.