Acquired purpura fulminans

Definition

A life-threatening, rapidly progressive thrombotic disorder affecting mainly neonates and children that is characterized by purpuric skin lesions and disseminated intravascular coagulation. It may progress rapidly to multi-organ failure caused by thrombotic occlusion of small and medium-sized blood vessels. There are two forms of the disorder that are classified according to triggering mechanisms: acute infectious (the most common form), and idiopathic purpura fulminans.