Petechiae

Description

Tiny round brown-purple spots due to bleeding under the skin, may be in a small area due to minor trauma or widespread due to blood-clotting disorder.

Self-care

If only one spot appears in one small area, and isn't spreading, it may be safely watched.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a healthcare professional at once if:

• Spreading or new spots developing.
• Widespread.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a healthcare professional if petechiae:

• Are all over the body.
• Appear for no known reason.