I'm an expert in medical sciences with a focus on dermatology and internal medicine. When it comes to petechiae, which are small, pinpoint, non-raised, round, and often reddish or purple spots on the skin, they can be caused by a variety of factors. The main causes of petechiae include:
1. Increased Vascular Fragility: The skin's capillaries can become fragile due to various reasons, leading to petechiae.
2. Thrombocytopenia: A decrease in the number of platelets in the blood can lead to petechiae because platelets are crucial for blood clotting.
3. Infection: Certain infections, like meningitis or sepsis, can cause petechial rashes.
4. Vascular Disorders: Conditions that affect the blood vessels, such as vasculitis, can result in petechiae.
5. Medications: Some drugs can cause petechiae as a side effect, particularly those that affect blood clotting.
6. Trauma: Physical injury to the skin can also lead to petechiae.
It's important to note that while these are common causes, the appearance of petechiae should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
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