purpura

pur·pu·ra

noun \ˈpər-pyə-rə, -pə-rə\

Definition of PURPURA

: any of several hemorrhagic states characterized by patches of purplish discoloration resulting from extravasation of blood into the skin and mucous membranes

— pur·pu·ric \ˌpər-ˈpyu̇r-ik\ adjective

Origin of PURPURA

New Latin, from Latin, purple color

First Known Use: 1753

pur·pu·ra

noun \ˈpər-p(y)ə-rə\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of PURPURA

: any of several hemorrhagic states characterized by patches of purplish discoloration resulting from extravasation of blood into the skin and mucous membranes—see thrombocytopenic purpura

purpura

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Presence of hemorrhages in the skin, often associated with bleeding from natural cavities and in tissues. Major causes include damage to small artery walls (as in vitamin deficiency or allergic reaction) and platelet deficiency (in association with such disorders as lupus erythematosus and as a complication of leukemia or chemotherapy).