Spectrum of purpura fulminans

Indian J Pediatr. 2009 Jan;76(1):87-9. doi: 10.1007/s12098-009-0034-0. Epub 2009 Apr 18.

Abstract

Purpura Fulminans is a severe disorder of acute onset with high morbidity and mortality. It is characterized by DIC with thrombocytopenia, hyofibrinogenemia, hypothrombinemia and anemia. It most often occurs in young with sudden appearance of symmetrical, tender, ecchymotic skin lesions usually involving the lower extremities. An infectious and noninfectious etiology has been proposed. Early recognition and early therapy with appropriate antibiotics and heparin is known to limit both morbidity and mortality. This article reports 5 cases of Purpura Fulminans treated at our centre with review of etiology, pathogenesis, clinical features and treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Basal Ganglia Diseases / etiology
  • Female
  • Gangrene / etiology
  • Gangrene / surgery
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Purpura Fulminans / complications
  • Purpura Fulminans / drug therapy
  • Purpura Fulminans / physiopathology*
  • Skin Diseases / etiology
  • Skin Diseases / surgery

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anticoagulants