Is the Appearance of Red Spots Always Indicative of Leukemia?

Red Spots Not Necessarily Indicative of Leukemia, May Stem from Other Conditions

The presence of red spots does not automatically signify leukemia but could be attributed to various other diseases, commonly including eczema, folliculitis, allergic purpura, hemangioma, among others. If you notice red spots, it is advisable to promptly visit a hospital for a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause and actively cooperate with differential diagnosis and treatment.

1. Eczema

Eczema is an inflammation of the superficial layer of the dermis and epidermis caused by multiple internal and external factors. Clinically, it manifests as papules and vesicles with a tendency to exude during the acute phase, and tends to present as lichenification with easy recurrence in the chronic phase. Eczema may arise from contact with allergens such as animal fur and pollen, or from chronic infections like respiratory infections, all of which can trigger skin inflammation and result in red spots on the skin.

2. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an inflammatory skin condition typically caused by bacterial infection of hair follicles, with bacterial folliculitis being the most common type. It is often triggered by Staphylococcus aureus infection, presenting as red spots on the local skin, which may be accompanied by pain.

3. Allergic Purpura

Commonly seen in adolescents, allergic purpura frequently occurs during spring and autumn. It manifests as non-blanching red spots on the skin, accompanied by symptoms such as joint pain, abdominal pain, and kidney damage.

4. Hemangioma

Hemangioma, a benign tumor, typically forms during embryonic development due to proliferation of the vascular network. It presents as excessive proliferation of vascular endothelial cells in the skin, resulting in red spots on the skin, which generally pose no harm to the body.

5. Others

Conditions like liver dysfunction caused by elevated bile acids, leading to bilirubin deposition in the skin and forming jaundice, or anemia due to shortened red blood cell lifespan, may also manifest as red spots on the skin. Patients are advised to maintain good skin hygiene to prevent infections, maintain a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins, and avoid spicy and irritating foods.