What do MM hemorrhages (petechiae and ecchymoses) indicate?

MM hemorrhages, such as petechiae and ecchymoses, are indicative of issues related to blood clotting disorders. Petechiae are small, pinpoint red or purple spots that result from the leakage of blood from capillaries, while ecchymoses are larger areas of bleeding beneath the skin. The presence of these hemorrhages often points to a failure in normal hemostasis, which can arise from various conditions.

When there are blood clotting disorders, such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet counts), von Willebrand disease, or other coagulation factor deficiencies, the ability of blood to clot effectively is compromised. As a result, even minor trauma or fluctuations in blood pressure can lead to bleeding and the formation of these small hemorrhages in mucous membranes.

Other potential causes, such as internal bleeding, dehydration, or poor perfusion, may result in blood loss or decreased blood flow, but they are not the primary reasons for the specific manifestations of petechiae and ecchymoses in the mucous membranes. Thus, these symptoms are most strongly associated with disorders affecting blood clotting.