Purpura is a condition characterized by purple spots or patches on the skin or in the mucus membranes, such as the mouth and throat. The spots appear differently depending on the skin tone and are small, flat, and red or purple on lighter skin tones but appear brown or black on darker skin tones. Purpura occurs when blood vessels burst and blood collects under the skin, and it can develop anywhere on the skin, but it is most common on the limbs.

There are two main types of purpura, which are classified based on the underlying condition causing them:

• Nonthrombocytopenic purpuras: This type of purpura occurs when a person has normal platelet levels in their blood. It may be due to disorders and infections that cause abnormalities in blood vessels or blood production, amyloidosis, blood vessel deterioration associated with age, or a lack of vitamin C.

• Thrombocytopenic purpuras: This type of purpura occurs when a person has a lower than normal platelet count. It may be due to drugs that reduce the platelet count, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), or immune neonatal thrombocytopenia.

Purpura can be a sign of a severe disease or underlying condition, and it is important to contact a healthcare provider if you notice purpura or any blood spots, patches, or skin discoloration. Treatment for purpura depends on its cause, and doctors must determine its cause before treatment.