petechiae
Pronunciation: puh-TEE-kee-eye
Small, pinpoint red or purple spots on the skin caused by bleeding from capillaries, often indicating thrombocytopenia in pediatric patients.
Full Definition
Petechiae are tiny, flat, red or purple spots that appear on the skin and mucous membranes due to minor bleeding from broken capillary blood vessels. In pediatric hematology, petechiae are a crucial clinical sign often indicating low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) or platelet dysfunction. They typically measure less than 2 millimeters in diameter and do not blanch when pressure is applied. The presence of petechiae in children often prompts immediate hematological evaluation to rule out serious bleeding disorders or malignancies.
Usage
Usage note: Always plural; singular form 'petechia' is rarely used in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The child presented with scattered petechiae on the lower extremities, prompting a complete blood count." — Clinical assessment note
- "Parents should monitor for new petechiae during the initial weeks of chemotherapy treatment." — Patient education material