Question
Which one of the following statements is characteristic of Purpura fulminans ?
The correct answer is
Present as large ecchymosis with irregular shapes.
Purpura Fulminans Characteristics
Purpura fulminans is a critical medical condition characterized by fever, extensive purpura (discoloration due to bleeding under the skin), and signs of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
Analysis of Options
- Option 1: Incorrect. While Purpura fulminans involves skin lesions, they are typically hemorrhagic bullae (blisters containing blood) or ecchymoses, not non-hemorrhagic ones.
- Option 2 (Correct Answer B): Correct. This statement accurately describes the classic presentation of Purpura fulminans. The lesions are indeed large ecchymoses (bruise-like areas) often with irregular shapes and borders, indicating significant blood leakage into the skin.
- Option 3: Incorrect. Purpura fulminans is frequently triggered by an underlying infection, such as sepsis from bacteria (e.g., Group A Streptococcus). It is not exclusively an autoimmune disorder and is often associated with infections.
- Option 4: Incorrect. Patients who have had their spleen removed (asplenic) are generally more susceptible to severe infections, including those that can lead to Purpura fulminans. They are not protected; rather, they may be at higher risk.
Key Feature Summary
The defining characteristic of Purpura fulminans among the choices is its presentation as extensive, irregularly shaped ecchymotic skin lesions.
Correct Answer: Option B
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Important Questions from Coagulation Disorders
- Which one of the following investigations is NOT appropriate in a case of recurrent thrombosis?
- All of the following are causes of reactive thrombocytosis, EXCEPT:
- Cryoprecipitate cannot be used for treatment of which one of the following conditions?
A young primigravida with 11 weeks pregnancy presents with sudden onset pain and swelling of left lower limb. Homan's sign is positive. Duplex ultrasonogram shows non- compressibility of veins in the affected region, with absent flow. The drug of choice for treatment is:
- Which of the following conditions are associated with prolonged prothrombin time?
1. Factor VIII deficiency
2. Factor VII deficiency
3. Heparin anticoagulation
4. Warfarin anticoagulation
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
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