Malignant purpura is a medical condition characterized by the sudden onset of skin bleeding and bruises. The spelling of this term can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as "məˈlɪgnənt pɜrˈpjʊərə". The first syllable "mə-" is pronounced as "muh", followed by "lɪgn" which sounds like "lig-n". The word "purpura" is pronounced as "per-PYOOR-uh". Understanding the IPA phonetic transcription can help in correctly pronouncing and spelling complex medical terms like malignant purpura.
"Malignant purpura" refers to a severe and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the presence of widespread purple or red spots on the skin, known as purpura. It is often caused by an excessive leakage of blood from small capillaries into the surrounding tissues. This condition is considered malignant because it can frequently lead to serious complications.
The underlying mechanism of malignant purpura involves an aberrant immune response, in which the immune system attacks the blood vessels, leading to their inflammation and subsequent damage. This immune-mediated vasculitis is also known as leukocytoclastic vasculitis. As a result, the small blood vessels become fragile and prone to leakage, leading to the formation of purpura.
Malignant purpura typically presents with a variety of symptoms such as purplish bruising or discoloration on the skin, joint pain, abdominal pain, and kidney dysfunction. If left untreated, it can progress rapidly and cause life-threatening complications such as kidney failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, and even organ damage.
Diagnosis of malignant purpura involves a thorough physical examination, evaluation of medical history, and laboratory tests that assess kidney function, blood clotting factors, and presence of autoantibodies. Treatment primarily focuses on controlling the immune response through the administration of immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids and other drugs that modulate the immune system.
Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial in managing malignant purpura and preventing irreversible damage. Regular follow-up visits and ongoing monitoring are necessary to assess disease progression and evaluate treatment effectiveness.
• Epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis.
• Cerebrospinal fever.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "malignant purpura" relates to a medical condition called purpura fulminans. The etymology of the word "malignant" can be traced back to the Latin word "malignus", which means "evil" or "malicious". "Purpura" comes from the Latin word "purpura" as well, which means "purple" or "discoloration". Therefore, "malignant purpura" refers to a severe and rapidly progressive condition involving skin discoloration or purplish rash caused by underlying serious diseases or infections.