Is a purple rash on forearm due to previous iron infusion?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a rash on my forearms. About 4 or 5 days ago, I noticed two dark reddish almost purple spots on my right forearm when I woke up. I think they are under the skin, not raised, non-itchy. My skin is extremely dry and I neglected that so I started putting Jergen's ultra-healing lotion. I thought maybe I had scratched my arms while sleeping that is what it looked like. But each day much smaller spots have appeared. The only medication I take is 1 mg of Xanax twice a day for anxiety. I was diagnosed with cirrhosis three months ago and spent three days in the hospital. I had a blood transfusion and was treated for swelling in my feet and legs. Post-hospital stay, I was given two iron infusions. Since then I was supposed to follow up with a gastro and the hematologist for a blood draw recheck but with the Coronavirus it has not been possible for me to go in. So I do not know if this rash has anything to do with that but I would like to know what it is. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Sorry to hear about the problem you are having. As you have cirrhosis and iron infusion I suspect there is some blood clotting defect which is very common in this condition. These lesions are small hemorrhages or bleeding into the skin. They do heal with time if the clotting defect is improved or if no more new bleeding occurs. I hope you are not having dark-colored stools, nose bleeds, blood in cough vomiting, or any small injury taking more time for the blood to stop. If any of these condition persists you need to see an emergency service and get your blood coagulation profile done. Skin is dry in your condition, use emollients do not use harsh cleansing soaps. Use only mild ones too on alternate days. As you say new lesions are coming I am afraid you should get your coagulation profile done. If it is normal, use an emollient like aloe vera on these they do subside gradually.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.