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Pronunciation: pur'pu-ra

Definition: A condition characterized by hemorrhage into the skin. Appearance of the lesions varies with the type of purpura, the duration of the lesions, and the acuteness of the onset. The color is first red, gradually darkens to purple, fades to a brownish yellow, and usually disappears in 2–3 weeks; color of residual permanent pigmentation depends largely on the type of unabsorbed pigment of the extravasated blood; extravasations may also occur in the mucous membranes and internal organs.

Synonym(s): peliosis

[L. fr. G. porphyra, purple]

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