Purpura is defined as which of the following?

• A. Red rash caused by heat
• B. Rash of purple spots caused by internal bleeding from small blood vessels
• C. Purplish blotches from an allergic reaction
• D. Purple skin patches from sun exposure

Answer: (B)

Purpura is a sign of bleeding into the skin from small blood vessels, showing up as purple spots or patches that do not blanch when pressed. This distinguishes it from other rash types: heat rash is due to blocked sweat ducts and presents as red bumps, allergic reactions often cause wheals or hives that can itch and typically blanch, and sun exposure mainly causes redness or sunburn rather than bleeding into the skin. In practice, purpura points to a vascular or platelet issue and warrants attention to identify the underlying cause.