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

9. Meningococcemia

Meningococcemia first occurs in the respiratory tract and causes a host of unpleasant symptoms like nausea, fever, muscle pain, headache, as well as petechiae. The infection comes from the same bacteria responsible for meningitis. Meningitis occurs when the bacteria infect the protective coverings of the spinal cord and brain. Meningococcemia, on the other hand, occurs when the bacteria infect the blood without infecting the nervous system. Some individuals develop both infections simultaneously, with the bacteria first entering the blood and then passing into the nervous system. The bacteria commonly exist in the upper respiratory tract without causing illness symptoms. But if they do cause an infection, it's a medical emergency that must be treated immediately. Research indicates ten percent of individuals might carry the bacteria without an infection. If an infection develops, it's typically spread through sneezing and coughing. The most vulnerable individuals are children younger than four years old, who make up about half of all cases worldwide.

10. Scarlet Fever

Scarlet fever can occur as a secondary illness in individuals with strep throat. The condition creates a vivid red rash that covers the majority of the body. This isn't necessarily petechiae, but it can look extremely similar and be easily mistaken for it. Nearly every case of scarlet fever includes the rash, a sore throat, and a concerningly high fever. Children between five and fifteen years old are most susceptible to the condition. In the past, scarlet fever was a serious enough illness to be deadly or permanently disabling. Modern antibiotic regimens have greatly reduced the seriousness. But failing to treat scarlet fever can cause the body to develop issues that damage the kidneys, heart, and other organs. If individuals have a rash that looks like petechiae alongside strep throat symptoms and a high fever, they need to be seen by a doctor immediately. The longer patients go without treatment, the higher their risk of developing serious complications. The patient's tongue might also be bright red and look bumpy, like the texture of a strawberry.