20 Cause of Petechiae and What You Need to Know About Them

5. Endocarditis

Endocarditis is a condition in which the inner lining of the heart, medically known as the endocardium, becomes inflamed. The condition is typically caused by bacteria, and it can also be triggered by an infection. The symptoms of endocarditis often develop gradually, and some cases may go undiagnosed. Common symptoms include fever, heart murmurs, joint pain, nausea, and a sensation of fullness in the upper left abdomen. Swelling of the abdomen, feet, or lower legs may occur, and some individuals experience a cough, shortness of breath, or blood in the urine. The petechiae that occur with endocarditis normally form on the whites of the eyes, the roof of the mouth, or the insides of the cheeks, and they might also be noticed on the chest. Patients could also have painful red spots located just underneath the skin of their fingers or toes. To diagnose endocarditis, doctors will listen to the patient's heart, and blood tests, echocardiograms, chest x-rays, and electrocardiograms may be performed. Treatment for endocarditis generally consists of both intravenous and oral antibiotics, and patients with the infective form may need surgery.

6. Cytomegalovirus

Despite the intimidating name, cytomegalovirus is a commonly occurring virus capable of infecting nearly anybody. This virus remains in an individual's body for their entire life after infecting them. The majority of individuals are unaware they have cytomegalovirus since it's rare for the condition to cause issues in healthy individuals. However, those who are immunocompromised or pregnant do have reason to be concerned about cytomegalovirus. Developing a cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy can cause complications if the virus is passed on to the baby. If an individual's immune system is compromised, especially after an organ transplant, a cytomegalovirus infection might be fatal. The virus is spread through bodily fluids and has no cure. However, some medications can treat immunocompromised patients and newborns with the virus. Babies with cytomegalovirus might have petechiae, along with a host of more concerning symptoms, including an enlarged spleen and liver, impaired liver function, an abnormally small head, pneumonia, or seizures.