<P> Purpura are a common and nonspecific medical sign; however, the underlying mechanism commonly involves one of: </P> <Ul> <Li> Platelet disorders (thrombocytopenic purpura) <Ul> <Li> Primary thrombocytopenic purpura </Li> <Li> Secondary thrombocytopenic purpura </Li> <Li> Post-transfusion purpura </Li> </Ul> </Li> <Li> Vascular disorders (nonthrombocytopenic purpura) <Ul> <Li> Microvascular injury, as seen in senile (old age) purpura, when blood vessels are more easily damaged </Li> <Li> Hypertensive states </Li> <Li> Deficient vascular support </Li> <Li> Vasculitis, as in the case of Henoch--Schönlein purpura </Li> </Ul> </Li> <Li> Coagulation disorders <Ul> <Li> Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) </Li> <Li> Scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) - defect in collagen synthesis due to lack of hydroxylation of procollagen results in weakened capillary walls and cells </Li> </Ul> </Li> <Li> Meningococcemia </Li> <Li> Cocaine use with concomitant use of the one - time chemotherapy drug and now veterinary deworming agent levamisole can cause purpura of the ears, face, trunk, or extremities, sometimes needing reconstructive surgery . Levamisole is purportedly a common cutting agent . </Li> <Li> Decomposition of blood vessels including purpura is a symptom of acute radiation poisoning in excess of 2 Grays of radiation exposure . This is an uncommon cause in general, but is commonly seen in victims of nuclear disaster . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Platelet disorders (thrombocytopenic purpura) <Ul> <Li> Primary thrombocytopenic purpura </Li> <Li> Secondary thrombocytopenic purpura </Li> <Li> Post-transfusion purpura </Li> </Ul> </Li> <Ul> <Li> Primary thrombocytopenic purpura </Li> <Li> Secondary thrombocytopenic purpura </Li> <Li> Post-transfusion purpura </Li> </Ul>

What is the difference between purpura and ecchymosis