What should you know about purpura and sepsis?

Purpura describes purple, red or brownish spots caused by blood leaking beneath the skin. It may result from pressure, injury, medicines, platelet or clotting problems, inflammation, or infection. The appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

Sepsis is the body’s dangerous response to an infection and can worsen quickly. Possible sources include Pneumonia, Cellulitis or a Urinary Tract Infection. Purpura that does not fade when pressed, especially alongside fever, chills, confusion, severe weakness or breathing difficulty, is an emergency warning sign.

If purpura appears with a person who feels suddenly very unwell, call emergency services immediately. Do not wait for a rash to spread or for a routine appointment. Note when the spots appeared, take any medicine list and tell clinicians about recent infections, wounds, procedures and allergies.

Do not give leftover antibiotics or delay care while trying home remedies. Keep the person supervised, follow emergency-dispatch advice and avoid food or drink if they are confused or having difficulty swallowing.

Emergency assessment is needed for purpura with fever, rapidly worsening illness, fainting, confusion, cold or clammy skin, fast or difficult breathing, severe headache, stiff neck, marked weakness or reduced alertness. Children, older adults and people with weakened immunity may deteriorate without dramatic early signs, so sudden concern should be acted on promptly.

Tell the emergency team when the rash began, whether it fades under pressure, how quickly symptoms changed, where infection might have started and which medicines or health conditions could affect bleeding or immunity.