Solar purpura
Solar Purpura
Solar purpura (pronunciation: /ˈsoʊlər ˈpɜːrpjʊrə/), also known as actinic purpura or senile purpura, is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of purple spots or patches on the skin due to sun exposure.
Etymology
The term "solar purpura" is derived from the Latin word "sol" meaning "sun" and the Latin word "purpura" meaning "purple". It refers to the purple discoloration of the skin caused by sun exposure.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of solar purpura is the appearance of purple or dark red spots or patches on the skin. These spots are typically found on areas of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the hands and forearms. The spots may be flat or raised, and they do not blanch (fade) when pressure is applied.
Causes
Solar purpura is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the skin due to prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. This damage weakens the walls of the blood vessels, causing them to rupture and bleed under the skin. The blood that leaks out of the vessels is what causes the characteristic purple discoloration of the skin.
Treatment
Treatment for solar purpura primarily involves protecting the skin from further sun damage. This can be achieved by wearing sun-protective clothing, using sunscreen, and avoiding sun exposure during peak UV hours. In some cases, topical creams or ointments may be prescribed to help heal the skin and reduce the appearance of the spots.
Related Terms
- Dermatology: The branch of medicine dealing with the skin and its diseases.
- Purpura: A condition characterized by the appearance of purple spots on the skin caused by bleeding underneath the skin.
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: A type of radiation that is part of the sun's light spectrum and can damage the skin and eyes.
- Actinic keratosis: A rough, scaly patch on the skin that develops from years of exposure to the sun.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Solar purpura
- Wikipedia's article - Solar purpura
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