Purpura Fulminans: a Rare but Fierce Presentation of Pneumococcal Sepsis

Abstract

mostly presents with community-acquired pneumonia. We present a case of PF secondary to DIC related to Pneumococcal sepsis in an otherwise healthy and immunocompetent patient. LEARNING POINTS: Infectious purpura fulminans is a haematological emergency that demands early recognition and timely institution of therapy to prevent significant morbidity and mortality.A characteristic skin rash is a key diagnostic clue pointing to purpura fulminans, and should lead to prompt institution of therapy, as waiting for a skin biopsy result can delay the diagnosis and result in significant morbidity and mortality.Due to the lack of prospective data on management of the condition, various modalities, such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy and IVIG, still have questionable benefits. We therefore aim to expand knowledge of purpura fulminans management.