Purpura in the elderly can be categorized into allergic purpura and thrombocytopenic purpura. The former requires detachment from allergens and anti-allergic treatment; the latter is commonly characterized by primary immune thrombocytopenia and may require treatment with hormones and platelet transfusion.
1. The treatment of purpura includes detachment from allergens and selection of appropriate drugs according to the specific type of purpura. Medications include prednisone, loratadine, etc.
2. The treatment of thrombocytopenic purpura should clarify the cause of thrombocytopenia and treat the cause. For idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, hormonal therapy such as prednisone may be needed, and those with hypersplenism may have their spleens surgically removed. In the case of hyper-splenism, the spleen may be removed surgically. In the case of rheumatic diseases, hormones, cyclosporine and other immunomodulatory drugs may be used.
Platelet counts should also be monitored closely, and if thrombocytopenia is severe, or if active bleeding is present, aggressive platelet transfusion support therapy is needed to prevent serious bleeding events.
There is also a non-pathologic condition in which the elderly are prone to purpura, called “purpura senile”.
In conclusion, elderly people with purpura need to consult the hematology department, complete the relevant examinations, make a clear diagnosis, and treat the cause of the disease under the guidance of the physician.