Purpura Fulminans

Purpura fulminans (PF) is a rapidly progressive hematological emergency characterized by hemorrhagic skin necrosis. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) often complicates this entity leading to venous and arterial thrombosis. There are three main subtypes of purpura fulminans: the neonatal form secondary to inherited protein C or S deficiency, the infectious form, and the idiopathic cases. Early recognition is very important to decrease the death rate and the long-term health sequelae. A multidisciplinary approach is essential from the beginning.