Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 13, 2025
07:32
Balloon-based Injury to Induce Myointimal Hyperplasia in the Mouse Abdominal Aorta
Published on: February 7, 2018
9.9K
Balloon purpura
Victoria M Madray1, Kendall R Liner2, Loretta S Davis2
1Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, 1004 Chafee Ave FH-100, Augusta Ga, 30912, USA.
International Journal of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|March 15, 2021
Summary
Valsalva maneuvers can cause skin bruising like purpura and petechiae due to capillary rupture. A case report highlights this rare condition in a child after inflating balloons, emphasizing history for diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Valsalva maneuvers, involving forced exhalation against a closed airway, can increase intrathoracic pressure.
- This pressure increase can lead to venous return obstruction and rupture of dermal capillaries.
- Manifestations include purpura and petechiae, commonly on the face and neck.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of Valsalva-induced purpura in a pediatric patient.
- To highlight the importance of a thorough patient history in diagnosing this condition.
- To differentiate Valsalva purpura from other causes of petechiae and purpura.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 12-year-old girl presenting with purpura.
- Detailed medical and event history obtained, focusing on activities preceding symptom onset.
- Clinical examination to assess the extent and characteristics of the purpuric rash.
Main Results:
- The patient developed purpura and petechiae following the Valsalva maneuver of blowing up multiple balloons.
- A detailed history confirmed the temporal association between the activity and the skin findings.
- No underlying coagulopathy or other significant medical conditions were identified.
Conclusions:
- Valsalva maneuvers are a potential cause of purpura and petechiae, even in young, healthy individuals.
- A comprehensive history is crucial for diagnosing Valsalva purpura and avoiding extensive, unnecessary investigations.
- This case underscores the importance of considering iatrogenic or activity-induced causes for cutaneous bleeding.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Measurement of Blood Pressure
2.1K
Assessing blood pressure is a standard procedure executed in virtually all medical environments. The method utilized today was established over a hundred years ago by an innovative Russian doctor, Dr. Nikolai Korotkoff. The soft ticking noise, known as Korotkoff sounds, heard while taking blood pressure readings results from turbulent blood flow within the vessels. The apparatus required for this procedure includes a sphygmomanometer, a blood pressure cuff attached to a gauge, and a...
2.1K
01:14Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
2.9K
The first thing a clinician sees is the skin, so the examination of the skin should be part of any thorough physical examination. Most skin disorders are relatively benign, but a few, including melanomas, can be fatal if untreated. A couple of the more noticeable disorders, albinism and vitiligo, affect the appearance of the skin and its accessory organs.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
2.9K
01:28Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
220
Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
220
01:29Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction
238
Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...
238
01:29Cardiovascular System Abnormal Findings I: Inspection and Palpation
639
In a cardiovascular examination, inspection and palpation are crucial for identifying abnormalities.
Abnormal findings observed during an inspection
Abnormal findings observed during an inspection
639
01:27Pneumothorax-II
579
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
579