Which two observable skin signs are commonly seen with ITP?

Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is a condition characterized by low platelet counts, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. The two observable skin signs that are commonly associated with ITP are ecchymosis and petechiae.

Ecchymosis refers to large bruises that occur due to bleeding under the skin, often resulting from minor trauma or even spontaneously due to the low platelet count. This visibility of bruising is directly related to the inability of the blood to clot effectively because of the reduced platelet levels.

Petechiae are small, pinpoint red or purple spots that appear on the skin due to minor bleeding from capillaries. These spots can occur without any significant trauma and are a direct manifestation of the thrombocytopenia seen in ITP.

The presence of both ecchymosis and petechiae serves as key indicators of the bleeding tendency associated with ITP, making them critical signs for diagnosing and monitoring the condition. It is important for healthcare professionals to recognize these signs as they underscore the potential severity of the disorder related to bleeding risks.