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Original poster

Purpura rash on thighs - with pictures

9 replies

Return2thebasic · 17/07/2023 19:11

DS10 was complaining tired legs yesterday. I didn't take much note, as he barely went out in the weekend.

Then after school today, he complained about new rashes on his legs. Before we got home, his teacher called me to tell me the same thing - which I interpret as the rashes are unusual.

Definitely purple spots, some joined together becoming a patch, some still like spots. The biggest area is on the right upper thigh, about 3 cm x 5 cm. A long thin streak on the side of the same leg, about 5cm. Then 3 faint spots on the left thigh. They didn't itch or hurt and don't disappear being pressed.

Apart from tiredness on legs, he doesn't have any other symptoms, although I'm really on my edge right now. They look like purpura, bleeding cells under skin.

Then of course I Googled and read lots of horrible possibilities. Absolutely terrified.

Called GP, no use, asking me to call tomorrow 8am for emergency appointment. I'm thinking to go to walk-in instead, as those 8am emergency appointments aren't guaranteed. (I waited for 40mins today to get through to the receptionist).

Do they look like purpura?

Purpura rash on thighs - with pictures
Purpura rash on thighs - with pictures
Purpura rash on thighs - with pictures
OP posts:
YukoandHiro · 17/07/2023 19:15

A&e if he's tired and complaining too - they do worry about it when it's on the legs

Worst that happens is that you've wasted a visit

If it's something serious being there an hour earlier matters.

You can call 111 but they will definitely tell you to go for a non blanching rash and take six hours to do it as well

WeWereInParis · 17/07/2023 19:27

You can do an online 111 assessment which may help. But I imagine that a rash that doesn't go away when pressed will be A&E.

Rainraingoaway21 · 17/07/2023 19:29

I know someone who had viral meningitis recently and they had bruises on their legs. They also had other symptoms though such as excruciating headache and bad neck so doubt it is that, but just thought you should be aware.

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Original poster
Return2thebasic · 17/07/2023 19:34

I think I vaccinated him for meningitis B a few years ago privately. Theoretically, shouldn't be that.

OP posts:
Original poster
Return2thebasic · 17/07/2023 19:36

He started complaining lower leg hurting. We might have to go to a&e after all.

OP posts:
FortunateHarry · 17/07/2023 19:37

You need to go to A and E. It's probably nothing serious but please don't take the risk.

Original poster
Return2thebasic · 17/07/2023 19:48

There's junior doctors strike affecting a&e. Would a 24hrs walk-in suffice?

OP posts:
ChrisPPancake · 17/07/2023 22:05

When they were striking the last time our nearest A&E was practically empty, same when the ambulances were on strike.
I'd take him.

Original poster
Return2thebasic · 17/07/2023 23:26

It's been the shortest a&e experience after all these years. I was really surprised how few children were in the paediatric side. Within 10 minutes being triaged and within one hour and a half: blood test, urine test, doctor and then consultant all done. (I paid for 6 hours parking at arrival!!!)

Anyway, they all agreed it looks like HSP, but without other symptoms, there's no means to do anything about it. Blood test and urine test all came out normal. Will keep monitoring and go back for more check and urine test on Thursday for precaution.

I do feel a bit relieved that we went in to get it checked, especially the blood test (I guess that also set apart from a walk-in centre). But still have to keep a close eye on any new developments...

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