Final answer:
The cutaneous manifestations of medium vessel vasculitis vary, including skin lesions, nodules, loss of peripheral nerve function, and potentially loss of extremities. Hypopigmented areas and systemic symptoms may also be present. Vasculitis can lead to the formation of petechiae due to blood leakage from damaged blood vessels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cutaneous Manifestations of Medium Vessel Vasculitis
The cutaneous manifestations of medium vessel vasculitis can be diverse, involving various signs and symptoms. One common presentation is the appearance of skin lesions and nodules, which may be accompanied by a loss of peripheral nerve function. These lesions can lead to serious outcomes, including the loss of fingers, toes, and extremities due to tissue damage and impaired blood flow. Additional manifestations include hypopigmented skin, which refers to areas of skin that appear lighter than the surrounding skin, and systemic symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and neurological signs like photophobia, a stiff neck, and confusion. Vasculitis can cause blood to leak from damaged vessels, forming purple spots known as petechiae.
One characteristic sign to look out for in vasculitis is the presence of purple or red spots or lumps on the skin, reflecting localized areas of inflammation and blood vessel damage. Certain infectious agents, such as meningococcal bacteria, can lead to a petechial rash as part of a systemic infection, with the rash presenting as tiny, flat, hemorrhagic lesions due to the disruption of capillaries and small veins. The formation of blood clots as a result of vessel damage may become evident, with lesions enlarging and potentially signaling the onset of shock in severe cases.