Petechiae and purpura
Also called Non-blanching rash
- Typical age
- Any age
- Where
- anywhere
- Fever
- sometimes
- Itchy
- no
- Contagious
- No
- Usually lasts
- Needs urgent assessment
What it looks like
Tiny pinpoint red, purple or brown dots (petechiae) or larger bruise-like patches (purpura) that do NOT fade when pressed with a glass.
On brown and black skin, redness may look purple, grey or darker than surrounding skin; texture (raised, rough, blistered) is often the better clue.
What causes it
Bleeding under the skin. Can come from harmless strain like coughing or vomiting, but with fever it can be a sign of meningococcal disease or sepsis.
What helps at home
- Do the glass test: press the side of a clear glass on the spots. If they stay visible, treat it as an emergency.
- On darker skin, check paler areas such as palms, soles, inside eyelids and roof of the mouth.
When to call about petechiae and purpura
Call 911 or go to the ER now
- Non-fading rash with fever, or child seems unwell: call 911 or go to the ER now
- Spreading purple patches or bruising without injury
- Rash that does not fade when you press a clear glass against it (possible petechiae or purpura)
- Baby under 3 months with a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Call your pediatrician today
- A few dots only on the face after hard coughing or vomiting, child well: call your pediatrician for advice
General guidance based on AAP, NHS and CDC advice, not a diagnosis. If your gut says something is wrong, call your pediatrician or nurse line. You never need permission to seek care.
Questions parents ask
What is the glass test?
Press the side of a clear drinking glass firmly against the rash. Most viral rashes fade (blanch) under pressure. If the spots stay visible through the glass, the NHS and Meningitis charities advise getting emergency help immediately.
Rashes often confused with petechiae and purpura
- Hives · anywhere