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Bathtub suction-induced purpura
Maeran C Landers1, Theresa L Schroeder
1Department of Dermatology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
Pediatric Dermatology
|April 14, 2004
Summary
Two girls experienced recurring purpura on their lower backs. Investigations revealed the cause was self-induced lesions from bathtub suction, highlighting a rare form of factitious purpura.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Purpura, characterized by purple discoloration of the skin due to bleeding, can have various etiologies.
- Factitious disorders involve the intentional production or feigning of physical or psychological signs and symptoms.
Observation:
- Two pediatric patients presented with recurrent, self-localized purpura in a U-shaped pattern on their lower backs.
- Histopathology revealed extravasated erythrocytes and mild superficial inflammation, consistent with trauma.
Findings:
- One patient admitted to creating suction with a bathtub to induce the lesions.
- The second patient's purpura resolved upon discontinuing baths, suggesting a similar self-induced mechanism.
Implications:
- This case series identifies a novel method of self-induced purpura in children using bathtub suction.
- It underscores the importance of considering factitious disorders in pediatric patients with unexplained skin lesions.
- Awareness of this presentation is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management in clinical practice.