Vasculitis
Inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis) may be caused when
antibodies that have attached to antigens in the blood (immune
complexes), are deposited on the blood vessel walls. These purplish
spots can be felt in the skin. They do not turn white (blanch) when
pressed. As the condition progresses, they may become larger and
more bruise-like (ecchymotic), and some may develop central
ulceration or necrosis (tissue death).
Review Date: 5/31/2009
Reviewed By: Mark James Borigini, Associate Clinical Professor of
Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. Review
provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David
Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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