Orthostatic purpura

Orthostatic purpura is a medical condition characterized by the development of purple patches on the skin due to pooling of blood in the lower extremities. This condition is often associated with prolonged standing and can be a sign of underlying vascular disorders.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of orthostatic purpura is the appearance of purple or red patches on the skin, typically on the lower legs. These patches are often round or oval in shape and can vary in size. They are usually painless but can sometimes be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the legs.

Causes

Orthostatic purpura is caused by the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower extremities, which can occur as a result of prolonged standing or sitting. This can lead to increased pressure in the veins, causing the small blood vessels in the skin to rupture and leak blood into the surrounding tissues.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of orthostatic purpura is typically made based on the characteristic appearance of the skin lesions. Additional tests may be performed to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as vasculitis or thrombocytopenia.

Treatment

Treatment for orthostatic purpura primarily involves managing the underlying cause of the blood pooling. This may include lifestyle modifications such as avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, wearing compression stockings, and elevating the legs when possible. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to improve blood flow or reduce inflammation.

See also

• Purpura
• Vasculitis
• Thrombocytopenia

Orthostatic purpura Resources
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