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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Purple Discolouration On Buttocks?

I take care of a 96 year old. She is seditary and her bottom in places is purple. We change positions often to take the pressure off of her bottom. We are currently using Betameth which does not seem to be helping. Could this be some kind of fungal problem? My fear is this area will break down.
Tue, 1 Jul 2014
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Geriatrics Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,
In the elderly the skin is thin, paper like. The blood vessels are also thin walled and fragile with less connective tissue support. The purple discoloration on buttocks appears to be purpura in various stages of healing.

Women usually bruise more than men and corticosteroids such as betameth can thin the skin and increase the risk of bruising, even from minor trauma.

Treatment that can be followed include:
1. Maintaining skin integrity and preventing injury is very important.
2. Frequent changes in position is very important.
3. Emollient lotions can be applied at that spot.
4. Proper positioning to prevent shearing forces on skin.

It is not fungal problem. Discuss with the doctor regarding betameth use in the present situation.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
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What Causes Purple Discolouration On Buttocks?

Hi, In the elderly the skin is thin, paper like. The blood vessels are also thin walled and fragile with less connective tissue support. The purple discoloration on buttocks appears to be purpura in various stages of healing. Women usually bruise more than men and corticosteroids such as betameth can thin the skin and increase the risk of bruising, even from minor trauma. Treatment that can be followed include: 1. Maintaining skin integrity and preventing injury is very important. 2. Frequent changes in position is very important. 3. Emollient lotions can be applied at that spot. 4. Proper positioning to prevent shearing forces on skin. It is not fungal problem. Discuss with the doctor regarding betameth use in the present situation. Any further queries, happy to help again.