
Retiform purpura in the context of sepsis and autoimmunity
Abstract
Retiform purpura is a reticular skin eruption resulting from involvement of cutaneous vessels, which may lead to tissue ischemia and necrosis. The differential diagnosis is broad and includes both inflammatory and non-inflammatory causes. We present a case of a young male with systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome who developed a reticular skin eruption during an episode of sepsis and was successfully managed despite several clinical constraints. This case highlights that multiple contributory mechanisms may coexist in a single presentation and emphasises the importance of early recognition and prompt treatment to improve outcomes.
© 2026 Imasha Halpita, Gunendrika Kasthurirathne, published by Sri Lanka College of Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine
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