Differentiating Deep Tissue Pressure Injury (DTPI) From Other Causes of Purpura in the Sacrococcygeal Area: A Multiple Case Series.

BACKGROUND

Recent revisions to the pressure injury staging system include guidance on differential diagnoses for deep tissue pressure injury (DTPI). Accurately identifying DTPI is critical; however, purpura in the setting of vascular disorders and systemic infectious processes can share similar features confounding diagnosis.

CASES: In this three-case series, we describe suspected DTPI with an uncharacteristic shape or occurring in the presence of additional lesions distributed outside of typical pressure areas prompted further evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

The interdisciplinary approach we adapted was useful in determining the cause of purpura when the DTPI was ruled out by the certified wound care nurse.