Profile: Petechiae

Definition:   A small, flat, pinpoint spot that is violet, red or brown, located under the skin or on the mucous membranes (mouth, eyelids), which is neither raised nor bumpy. It is caused by the rupture of blood capillaries leading to bleeding under the skin. Petechiae typically appear on the arms, legs, stomach and buttocks. They can sometimes appear in clusters, resembling a rash, but it is not one.

Internal and external causes:   Bacterial or viral infection, injury, reaction to a medication (antibiotics, antidepressants, and blood thinning drugs), vasculitis.

How to reduce or eliminate them:   Taking antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection; taking corticosteroids to reduce the swelling of blood vessels

Preventive measures:   Avoid the medication causing the petechiae; regularly wash your hands with water and soap.