title: Evaluating the child with purpura.
abstract: Purpura is the result of hemorrhage into the skin or mucosal membrane. It may represent a relatively benign condition or herald the presence of a serious underlying disorder. Purpura may be secondary to thrombocytopenia, platelet dysfunction, coagulation factor deficiency or vascular defect. Investigation to confirm a diagnosis or to seek reassurance is important. Frequently, the diagnosis can be established on the basis of a careful history and physical examination, and a few key laboratory tests. Indicated tests include a complete blood cell count with platelet count, a peripheral blood smear, and prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times.
authors.affiliation: University of Calgary, Faculty of Medicine, Alberta, Canada.
authors.forename: A K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Leung
authors.forename: K W
authors.initials: KW
authors.lastname: Chan
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D001777:Blood Coagulation; D001778:Blood Coagulation Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002648:Child; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D011695:IgA Vasculitis / Q000175:diagnosis; D007938:Leukemia / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D011693:Purpura / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology*; D016553:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / Q000175:diagnosis; D014511:Uremia / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis