Purpura in the newborn

Abstract

Generalised purpura is rare and of the many possible causes, perhaps the most common is thrombocytopenia associated with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (I.T.P.) in the mother. One such case is presented in this study: The child was born from a 28-year old primigravida who in 1954, at the age of twelve years, had undergone splenectomy for I.T.P. On examination the male newborn had generalised purpura and areas of ecchymosis. The treatment provided to the neonate is described. Neonatal thrombocytopenia presents as generalized petechaie, purpuric spots and bleeding from various sites, e.g. melaena, haematuria and umbilical cord haemorrhage. In most cases no treatment is required as the condition is mild and resolves spontaneously. With severe thrombocytopenia, one must treat actively because of the threat of intracranial bleeding.