'Segmental purpura'. A sign of deep venous thrombosis

Abstract

Purpura developing in a cutaneous area corresponding to the distribution of tributaries distal to a thrombosed vein is not a generally recognised clinical sign. Two cases of its occurrence are reported here, one in the upper limb, and the other in the lower limb. The segmental nature is distinctive. The mechanism of its production is discussed. When present, it develops early in the course of the thrombosis, and awareness of this sign will lead to increased confidence in the diagnosis of acute deep venous thrombosis.