Purpura fulminante: contagion, transmission and prevention measures

by time news

2023-09-05 04:24:19

Mild case of purpura fulminans, which can lead to severe skin manifestations and other multi-organ complications.

the withering purple, a highly serious pediatric disease, continues to be one of the greatest emergencies in the medical field. This condition, which is characterized by purpura that tends to spread, is closely related to meningococcal sepsis, and more than 70% of fatal cases occur in the first 24 hours. The speed and effectiveness of the initial treatment are crucial factors in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.

It is usually a rare but serious disease, which mainly affects the circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body. This condition is characterized by the formation of small blood clots in the blood vessels, which can lead to a significant decrease in blood flow. As a result, organs and tissues can be severely damaged due to lack of oxygen and nutrients.

It became a topical issue in Uruguay after it became known about the tragic death of a child under 4 years old for this disease.

Colonization by meningococcus and transmission between people

Present in the nasopharynx of between 10% and 30% of the general population, meningococcus has a clear predominance in young adults. This initial colonization appears to be the first step in the development of meningococcal infection.

Although in most cases it is transient, it can lead to sepsis when it crosses the pharyngeal mucosal barrier. It is precisely this septicemic phase that can lead to the appearance of purpura fulminans.

The spread of the virus occurs from person to person through the respiratory tract.. For this transmission to take place, close and direct contact is required, such as living in the same home, sharing the same room, or being in crowded places, such as day care centers and schools.

It is also possible to become infected by having direct contact with the patient’s respiratory secretions.

The incubation period lasts an average of 2 to 4 days. After the sick person begins effective treatment with the appropriate antimicrobial, they are no longer contagious within 24 to 48 hours.

Post-varicella purpura fulminans

Although chickenpox is generally considered a mild illness, there are life-threatening complications, such as post-varicella purpura fulminans. The underlying cause of this condition lies in the production of antibodies against proteins C and S of the coagulation cascade, which can lead to serious consequences in individuals with partial deficiencies in these proteins.

The therapeutic approach focuses on relieving symptoms and involves administration of fresh frozen plasma to replenish depleted proteins, antithrombin III and heparin to address clot formation, plus anti-inflammatories such as corticosteroids. However, innovative therapeutic approaches are being investigated, such as intravenous administration of prostaglandin E1 and prostacyclin.

read more than british hospital

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