Preferred anatomical locations
Petechiae may appear in different anatomical areas, with some preferential locations:
Cervico-facial region: These lesions can occur around the eyelids, on the face or neck, often as a result of increases in intravascular pressure during coughing, emetic episodes or intense physical exercise.
Upper and lower limbs: Petechiae are frequently recorded on the arms, legs, hands or feet.
Thoraco-abdominal region: They may also appear on the chest or abdomen, particularly in the context of systemic pathologies.
Predisposing factors
Certain factors may increase susceptibility to petechiae:
Age factor: Older people often have accumulated capillary fragility, making them more vulnerable to petechiae.
Pre-existing medical conditions: Various pathologies such as lupus, Kawasaki disease or meningitis significantly increase the risk of developing these vascular lesions.
Pharmacological treatments: Corticosteroid, anticoagulant or other medicinal products that affect haemostasis may also increase this risk.
Differential diagnosis with other skin rashes
Petechiae may be confused with other dermatological manifestations such as bruising or erythema. Nevertheless, they have important distinctive characteristics:
No skin relief: Unlike other lesions, petechiae are not swollen and do not whiten at vitropressure.
Specific morphology: They are generally small in size, circular in shape and homogeneous in appearance.
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